So it's especially satisfying that the Texas Stars have not just survived, but thrived as they prepare for a postseason run of their own.

It's always the right time to catch up with Cedar Park, and Wes and Mark called in a top player for the task. Stephen Meserve, founder of the go-to T-Stars news site 100 Degree Hockey and co-author of We Win Here: The Definitive Essays You Need About The Texas Stars, joined the cast for a long and substantial discussion. They discuss how the organization prepares players to succeed in the big league, how college free agents have bolstered a team with a sparse draft-pick cupboard, how goaltending kept the T-Stars going during the turbulent first months of the 2025-26 season, and so much more.

Are Justin and Dylan Hryckowian the Stars' next great brother act? We're Stargazing, and we're asking you to put your money up.

Let's talk more at Defending Big D. And please give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. It's all we think about these days.

And if you want to know more about Stephen's recent work on the AHL's evolving usage of Professional Tryout contracts, hop over to 100 Degree Hockey for a good read (and some really interesting interactive charts).

Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

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In this episode of Stargazing, Wes and Mark talk about why the Stars have placed so much of their trust in Otter — and it has almost nothing to do with his future Vezina Trophy prospects. They also discuss what the Lian Bichsel-Tyler Myers pair can bring to a Stanley Cup Playoffs series, how to evaluate goalie performance as part of team defense, and which forwards should play on which lines during the postseason. They also expand their Expected Rawr (xRawr) chart to include even more current and historical Stars players.

Sometimes the solution that works is not the solution you had in mind. We’re Stargazing, and we're a tree. We can bend.

Which Stars are in which xRawr quadrant? So far, Wes and Mark have calculated rankings for the following players, current and historic:

• • Sam Steel
  • Jason Spezza
  • Alex Radulov
  • Miro Heiskanen
  • Esa Lindell
  • Marty Turco

Let's talk more at Defending Big D. And please give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. It really makes our day.

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In this episode, Wes and Mark talk about this in depth. They discuss whether Michael Bunting needs to play on the first line, the possibility that Tyler Myers has a Jordie Benn problem, the state of the defense, how the Stars' run-up to the Stanley Cup Playoffs is panning out, and – of course – who falls where on the Expected Rawr (xRawr) chart, now enhanced with up to 37 percent more made-up stats.

You take two of your best players off the roster, and all of a sudden forward depth is an issue. We’re Stargazing, and we get it. We really do.

Which Stars are in which xRawr quadrant? So far, Wes and Mark have calculated rankings for the following players, current and historic:

• • Sam Steel
  • Jason Spezza
  • Alex Radulov

(Yes, we are this committed to the bit. Get on board now, or risk an injury when you try to jump this train during the playoffs.)

Let's talk more at Defending Big D. And don't forget to give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. That's, like, our whole thing right now.

Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

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If you're a regular Stargazing listener, you may know that Wes and Mark like to talk about this, as well as the associated stat they created pretty much out of thin air. For branding and hashtagging purposes, we'll call it Expected Rawr (xRawr). In this edition, they discuss how Matt Duchene makes Sam Steel better (and vice versa), the balance in net between Jake Oettinger (Him) and Casey DeSmith (Dawg), those all-important players in the upper right quadrant, and ever so much more.

The best statistics are the ones you make up. (Sixty percent of the time, this is true all the time.) We’re Stargazing, and we can make stuff up as well as any podcast out there.

Which Stars would you assign to each xRawr quadrant? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D. And don't forget to give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. That's, like, our whole thing right now.

Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

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Wes and Mark have their ideas. In this edition of Stargazing, they talk about how the Central Division will play during bonus weeks, what the Stars' lines and pairs could look like, and why the most interesting signing may not be the one you think it is.

Everyone needs more dog in their lineup. We're Stargazing, and we're brought to you by our favorite law firm, Miro Esa and Thomas.

Are the Stars better now than they were before the trade deadline? Let us know what you think. And please, give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts.

Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

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Wes and Mark have been pondering this question for quite some time. In this edition of Stargazing, they talk about the Stars' identity, the roles Cedar Park can't fill, the possibility of the team flexing its physical side during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jim Nill's prospective legacy, the pressure to win it all, and ever so much more.*

Question for the group: Would you rather we bring in a guest expert to talk about potential moves before the deadline, or to discuss the fallout after GMJN has done (or not done) what he will? Let us know at Defending Big D. Your input matters!

And please, give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

*NOTE: All 4 Nations-Winter Olympics conflations (and others) intentionally left intact. (What? Now I have to sit in front of you and fix someone else’s gaffes? It’s not my responsibility.)

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Fortunately, there's very little like a Winter Olympics break to facilitate some midseason gab – and here at Stargazing, "gab" is our middle name. (It's in there. The B is silent.) In this episode, Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman discuss the factors contributing to the Stars' blown leads, the turtling tendencies that change but never seem to go away, the worst thing about a great power play, the one player who might have been worth going for at the trade deadline, and so much more.

Are you task-oriented or think-oriented? We're Stargazing, and we need the answer right now. Or not. At any rate, share your answer at Defending Big D. Let's talk about it.

And please, give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

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In this episode of Stargazing, Mark sat down for an incredibly specific Stars conversation with Puck Over The Glass founder (and friend of DBD) Aaron Knodell. With Aaron's recent article on Harley's output as a jumping-off point, they take a deep dive into the Stars' defense — the pairings, the performances, the effects of Glen Gulutzan's new system, and so much more.

You don't play like an elite NHL defender for two years and just forget how, do you? We’re Stargazing, and we're beginning to think not.

Are you looking for Team Canada Thomas Harley in Milano-Cortina? And while we're talking about it, who you got for the men's and women's Olympic hockey hardware? Let’s talk about it at Defending Big D. (And put your picks up now. You don't get to come in on February 23 and say you went 14-0 in the medal rounds.)

And please, give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

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Wes and Mark think it's not that simple...or is it? In this episode of Stargazing, they talk about the impact of beast mode, the cold comfort of outplaying an opponent and missing by that much, the value of swagger, the upcoming schedule and what they want to see from it, and ever so much more.

You're in the other team's head until you're not. We’re Stargazing, and we got that dog in us.

What do you want to see from the Stars during the Central-heavy stretch ahead? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D. And please, give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts.

Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

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Wes and Mark understand complexity, especially when it comes to the Victory Green Gang's problems. In this episode, they talk about why the Stars can't score anymore, the surprisingly affordable tweak that could help them at the NHL trade deadline, whether or not this is the year the team goes all in on a Stanley Cup run, Jim Nill's legacy, and ever so much more.

Sometimes you have to win two Western Conference Finals just to get to the Western Conference Final. We’re Stargazing, and we say, "Welcome to the Central Division."

What are your thoughts as we approach the big February break? Share them with us at Defending Big D. And please, give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. Your feedback is practically all we think about.

Thanks for everything. We love you.

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No, Wes and Mark aren't serious about that. But they do have quite a few ideas about how the Stars can become the best version of themselves before April.

In this edition of Stargazing, they discuss the tradeoffs the Stars make for an elite power play, the ways this team can still improve before the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the elephants in the room that are the Stars' future NHL Draft options, the Winter Olympics snub you're not talking about (yet),and ever so much more.

Never make a deal from a point of weakness. We’re Stargazing, and we make all our deals over coffee.

What sort of short-term rental could make the Stars unstopabble? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D. And if you will, give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. Your feedback is practically all we think about.

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Regression got the Victory Green Gang, at least for the period of their regularly scheduled post-holiday swoon, and Our Gang probably told you so. Wes and Mark may even now be chatting with David Castillo – owner and operator of Stars Stack and its audio companion, the Stars Stackcast – because they do run long when its comes to these deep dives.

In this edition, the stats exam goes into team momentum, the potential benefits of not planning around the Stars' opponents but making opponents plan around them, the respect Jason Robertson deserves (and doesn't get, even from some Dallas fans), the real takeaway from the worst Mighty Ducks movie, and ever so much more.

The NHL may be more Guerin-brained than ever, but you'll have to prove it. With math. We’re Stargazing, and we can do this if we really, really have to.

Why not share your thoughts at Defending Big D? For that matter, why not make it your New Year's resolution to give us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts? Your feedback means the world to us.

Thanks for everything. We love you.

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In this episode, Wes and Mark invited David Castillo to talk about the Victory Green Gang's underlying stats – and, candidly, to talk them down from the rickety ledge of Stars positivity. And they had so much to talk about that we're splitting this cast into two parts, so you can slam it down fast.

In this edition, the crew ponders what Mikko Rantanen does that makes him unique among NHL forwards, what Thomas Harley can do to make the Stars a true playoffs force, what will happen if (when) regression gets to them, and ever so much more.

It's not unsustainable if you can do it. We're Stargazing, that's our story, and we're sticking to it.

While you're here, why not throw in an opinion at Defending Big D on where you expect the Stars to be at the Olympics break? We think about your feedback all the time, and that's why we'd also love a rate, review, or share from you, wherever you get your podcasts.

Thanks for everything. We love you.

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Wes and Mark have decided that this year's Stars were built this way on purpose. And in this edition of Stargazing, they make the case. They discuss the type of shots the team makes, the type they give up, and how the type of game they play means they perhaps don't get as much credit as they deserve for their own success.

Loading a whole other power-play unit...cats and dogs playing together...mass hysteria! We're Stargazing, and we endorse it. What about you? Tell us what you'd like to see at Defending Big D.

And if you're listening, please gift us a rate, review, or share wherever you get your podcasts. We love you. Especially at holiday time.

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Mark Zimmerman loves discussing the Texas Stars, and even more so when he can enlist Stephen Meserve to talk with. Late last week, the founder of the go-to T-Stars news site 100 Degree Hockey and co-author of We Win Here: The Definitive Essays You Need About The Texas Stars joined him for a fireside chat.

In this episode, they talk about the slump in special teams, the boost the offense needs, the long-term effects of trading away draft picks, the surprisingly happy news about the defense and goaltending, and why Texas is still in striking distance of the 2026 Calder Cup playoffs in spite of all their challenges. As a bonus, they also ponder how the Idaho Steelheads just. keep. winning. Somehow.

Who would you like to see step and be That Guy in Metro Austin? Tell us at Defending Big D. We may even discuss your thoughts in a future cast. (No, really!)

And, as always, please rate, review, or share wherever you get your ’casts. We're Stargazing, and we love you.

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Any time there's this much money involved, Wes and Mark know what to do — and that's to call on Juraj Kralik. In this edition, they all discuss the finer points of long-term injured reserve, how the newly christened Mark Stone Rule will complicate the playoffs picture, why the Stars might skip right past a rental forward and look to trade for another impact defender, why doing nothing may be a viable answer, and so much more.

You know what might really fix everything? Getting those '99 sweaters back in stock. We’re Stargazing, and we can tell you why. What's your answer? Tell us at Defending Big D.

And hey, don't forget to give us a rate, review or share wherever you get your podcasts. Thanks in advance. We love you all.

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As it turns out, Wes and Mark know all about being grateful for the bounty in Big D. In this edition, they discuss Jason Robertson's record-setting heater, Tyler Seguin's creativity, Mikko Rantanen's magic, Miro Heiskanen's renaissance, Wyatt Johnston's yet-untapped potential, the power play's deadly efficiency, and so much more.

This is one of the top two teams in the NHL. In the NHL. We’re Stargazing, and we're loving (almost) every minute of it. How about you? Talk to us at Defending Big D.

And while you're at it, please give us a rate, review or share at a podcast aggregator near you. Thanks in advance. We love you all.

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That said, they do have questions. In this episode of Stargazing, they want to know what's up with Thomas Harley, how Mikko Rantanen has changed the team's structure, whether the new system is contributing to defensive foibles, if the Stars can keep holding their own in the Central Division, and so much more. It all adds up to the kind of hard-hitting analysis that can be summarized as "More points are better than less points."

This team we're so worried about has a 7-1-2 record over the past 10 games. We’re Stargazing, and we say, let that soak in. But tell us why you're concerned over at Defending Big D, because we swear we'll understand.

By the way, please, give us a rate, review or share wherever you get your digital sound files. Thanks in advance. We love you all.

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There's so little flexibility in the Victory Green lineup right now that it's easy to hang all one's hopes on the regular roster players who are surely coming back any day now. And however much false hope may trouble Wes and Mark, their take on the Stars' status is...pretty optimistic, all things considered. In the latest edition of Stargazing, they discuss who will be the best partner for Lian Bichsel, whether Mavrik Bourque needs to move up a line, who we need to call to get Wyatt Johnston onto Team Canada, and so much, much more.

Just wait ’til everyone is healthy. Right? ...Right? If you have a different take, then by all means share it at Defending Big D. We'll probably even mention you in a future cast. We're Stargazing, and we say Miro solves everything. (Hey, prove us wrong.)

And please, give us a rate, review or share wherever you get your digital sound files. Thanks in advance. We love you all.

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For the latest edition of Stargazing, we followed the money. Friend of DBD Juraj Kralik joins Wes and Mark, and he needs you to stop thinking as if the NHL is still in a flat-cap era. They discuss how the salary cap is poised to take off, why NHL needle-movers aren't making it to free agency, new possibilities for the Jason Robertson re-signing, and the ways in which Thomas Harley's blockbuster extension will benefit the Stars in general and Miro Heiskanen in particular.

Do you really think we'd do an entire episode about the Dallas Stars and their financial flexes without figuring in Jamie Benn's potential bonuses? Get in, losers, we're going Stargazing.

What's your take on what the Stars should do next? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D. And please, throw us a rate, review or share wherever you listen. Enjoy.

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We here at Stargazing acknowledge our fault in this, mainly by making this season's Doom Cast so much longer than...well, every other cast we've done so far. In this episode, Wes and Mark pull back a little. There's plenty to like in the Stars' latest run of play (breakouts, neutral zone coverage, the power play), as well as plenty that still needs work (two words: penalty kill). We cover all of it in the time it'll take you to complete your afternoon commute. Probably. Maybe.

Do we need to end the "Esa Lindell is the Alex Ovechkin of Dylan Sambergs" talking point? We're Stargazing, and we're thinking about it. What's your take? Tell us at Defending Big D.

And please give us a rate, review or share wherever you listen. Welcome to the podcast. We love you.

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For the 2025 Doom Cast, Wes and Mark pull out all the stops. From the gaps at left wing, to the lack of depth at goalkeeping, to why the best path to getting a better penalty kill is not to get on the penalty kill...nothing is safe from the worst possible interpretation. It's cathartic, or something.

Will our team never be able to hold a lead? We’re Stargazing, and we urge you to face your fears so we can shake them off...together.

(Bonus thought: Aura-farming could be part of the solution. Let's discuss it at Defending Big D.)

And please give the cast a rate, review or share wherever you listen. It’s fuel for our future rants. Thanks.

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Wes and Mark are here to stoke that fire. The 300th episode of Stargazing — and our umpty-umpth Brightside Cast — is dedicated to that unquenchable spirit of optimism. And here's the thing: There's evidence to back it up. Join us for a discussion of the new roster and how it works, fluke occurrences vs. systemic events, why (sometimes) simpler is better, and so much more.

You already expected the world from Mikko Rantanen...how much more do you expect now? We’re Stargazing, and we can't wait to hear how unreasonable you can be.

Let’s talk about the Stars' first victory — and their next challenge — at Defending Big D. And please give the cast a rate, review or share wherever you listen. It's fuel for our future rants. Thanks.

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Wes and Mark wanted a deep dive into the 2025-26 season, so they invited D Magazine contributor David Castillo — who's also the founder of Stars Stack (for Stars news and views) and Sticks and Salvos (for the NHL in general). In this edition, they discuss how Glen Gulutzun's system changes could benefit Roope Hintz, Esa Lindell as an oddly specific elite defender, why the Stars can't try to outscore their problems this year, and so much more.

Do you want to see Lian Bischel fight a proper enforcer, or does the team need him on the ice too much? We’re Stargazing, and we have more RAWR per 60 than any cast out there. (We will threaten you with a good time, is what we're saying.)

Let’s talk about the new season at Defending Big D. And please give the cast a rate, review or share wherever you listen. It really does make our day. Thanks.

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For once, that's a conversation for another day (read: don't worry, folks, the annual Doomcast will arrive in due time). For now, Wes and Mark want to talk about how new old bench boss Glen Gulutzun is tweaking the system, which players are looking like roster material, and how the Victory Green Gang will process the four-to-six-week loss of Jamie Benn.

What are your hottest preseason takes? We’re Stargazing, and we guarantee we've said dumber things that actually ended up on the record. Let’s hash it out at Defending Big D.

And please give the cast a rate, review or share while you’re thinking about it. We love you. Thanks.

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Friend of DBD and recurring Celebrity Guest Juraj Kralik is here again, and this time he joins both Wes and Mark to think about the future. In this edition, they talk about why the blueline might be in better shape than we think, how two stacked forward lines could carry the offense, what to look for in the Gulutzan System, and a whole lot more.

Forget losing Jason Robertson: What if the Stars got his brother, too? We’re Stargazing, and we're all for having both Radek Faksa and Faksa Lite (a.k.a. Oskar Bäck). Let’s talk about it at Defending Big D.

And please give the cast a rate, review or share while you’re thinking about it. We love you. Thanks.

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Mark knew who he wanted to talk to about it, so he contacted self-described stats nerd and friend of DBD Juraj Kralik – who's also a big maven concerning the business of hockey and is generally in his glory during free-agency season. In this edition, they talked about how the Stars could take a step back in 2025-26, the very real chance that they'll actually be better next April than they were this year, where those Jason Robertson trade rumors may be coming from...and a whole lot more.

Is Wyatt Johnston really Nathan MacKinnon Lite? We're Stargazing, and this is the kind of thing we think about during the offseason. How about you? Let’s talk about it at Defending Big D.

And please give the cast a rate, review or share while you’re at it. We love you. Thanks in advance.

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Wes and Mark want to know, too. Their latest talk covers everything from Jason Robertson trade rumors to the new two-way contract for Rémi Poirier, with a few stops at the salary cap situation just to keep everything in perspective. (And keep in mind that this conversation took place before everyone's season ended earlier this week, so please give our dynamic duo their flowers for predicting...everything.)

Will the next head coach just need to play Nils Lundkvist more? We’re Stargazing, and we think that's not the real story...but it may be part of the story.

What do you think about what's happening in Frisco? Let’s talk about it at Defending Big D.

And please give the cast a rate, review or share while you’re at it. We love you. Thanks in advance.

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Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman sat down after the end (and before the news of Pete DeBoer's departure) to examine the strategy...and why we might have seen this coming. In this edition, they discuss how slow starts seem to doom the Stars' chances, the eerie silence of their vaunted scoring depth, and why their four (4) deliberate moves on defense didn't work.

They also discuss how much of the Stars' downfall may have been down to being out-coached – and what the team needs to do to clear the next hurdle.

We're Stargazing, and we think Neil Graham might want to keep his cell phone charged. Possibly. Maybe. What's your take? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D.

And please give the cast a rate, review or share while you're at it. We love you. Thanks in advance.

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Wes and Mark discuss the dangers of over-passing, the importance of scoring first, and the importance of turning expected goals into, well, goals.

Wyatt Johnston, you're probably going to be the key to whatever happens tonight...for better or otherwise. We’re Stargazing. (No pressure.)

Who you got for tonight in Dallas? Tell us at Defending Big D, because someone's going to be correct, and it might as well be you.

And please give the cast a rate, review or share. While you can. Thanks in advance.

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So what does this tell us about the rematch we've all been waiting for? Wes and Mark worked After Dark to fashion a narrative for the Stars based on everything they had to do to beat the Colorado Avalanche and the Winnipeg Jets. And in this edition, they discuss the Connor McDavid game plan, the value of going east-west versus north-south, and why the best way for Dallas to win this series is to stay out of the penalty box.

I know what let's do – let's you guys get a ton of goals! We're Stargazing, and we're not afraid to state the obvious. And if you're looking for that link to the True North Youth Foundation that Wes mentioned...well, look no further.

Ready to make those last-minute calls? Tell us about them at Defending Big D, because you can't just come in at the start of the Stanley Cup Final and tell us you went seven for seven in Round 3.

And please do us the honor of giving our little puckcast a rate, review or share. We live for your validation. Thanks in advance.

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A lot has happened in the past five days, and Wes and Mark want to talk about all of it. In this edition of Stargazing, they examine the advantages of having two No. 1 defensemen, compare and contrast the return trajectories of Jason Robertson and Miro Heiskanen, and discuss the importance of playing within your structure – and what happens when an opposing team forces you out of it.

When is a playoff penalty not a playoff penalty? And does it matter? Here at Stargazing, we ask the hard questions. (You're welcome.)

Can the Stars close out Round 2 in Game 5, in enemy territory, against a Winnipeg Jets team that will throw everything that got them the 2025 President's Trophy onto the ice? Let's talk about at Defending Big D.

And thanks in advance for your rate, review or share. We love you.

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We know everyone loves a doomcast, but at this point we're constantly on the lookout for reasons to believe. So Wes and Mark worked through the night to find sustainability in the Stars' current good fortune (you know, the kind that doesn't involve counting on Mikko Rantanen to tally a hat trick in every remaining game).

In this edition, they discuss double-shifting Moose, dealing with the Jets' dominant top line, the return of Robo, how the game will change if Miro or Morrissey (or both) make it back in Game 2, what to expect from Pete DeBoer, and so much more.

A great penalty kill is like great insurance: You love to have it, but the more you use it, the costlier it gets. We're Stargazing, and we can come up with this stuff all day. And After Dark!

Can the Stars keep winning on the road – and, even more importantly, at home? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D. We'd love to discuss your thoughts in the next cast.

And please don't forget to rate, review and share wherever you listen. We're grateful for it. Enjoy.

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Brad McDonnell joined Wes and Mark to examine how the Stars match up with their Dirty Central cellmates, the Winnipeg Jets. In this edition, they discuss how Mason Marchment can help (and hurt) by creating chaos, where Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson will slot back into the lineup, and whether Connor Hellebuyck is human after all.

It's just like the regular season, with 62 percent more #MurderDeathKill! Welcome to Stargazing. Four more won't matter where we're going.

What do you want to see from the Stars as this series begins? Sound off at Defending Big D, and let's talk about it.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Enjoy.

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And if Game 7 taught us anything, it's that sometimes you need to rely on your superstars. That's why we turned to Taylor Baird – DBD's managing editor and NHL.com's go-to Stars contributor. In this edition, she and Wes talked about and. And along with the usual stat tricks, they ponder what the Stars are coming to mean to the DFW area's success-hungry sports fans.

Welcome to Stargazing. We love you.

What do you want to know about what's next? Tell us at Defending Big D. We'll get to all your questions in our Round 2 preview.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Let's go.

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Wes and Mark worked After Dark to put their thoughts together, and in this episode they discuss the advantages of shortening the Stars' bench, the dangers of relying on Pete DeBoer's playoffs streak, and why it may be a good idea for Mikko Rantanen to play 20 minutes in Game 7.

Who will be the hero the Stars need in Game 7? Tell us at Defending Big D. We not only read them, we bring them up in future casts. (Get your props while the getting's good!)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We love you. Thanks.

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Wes and Mark met up After Dark to pore over the possibilities. In the process, they parse the ongoing threat of Gabriel Landeskog, Lian Bichsel's debut as a meme, and why – right now – the Stars are a better team for having Oskar Bäck in the lineup.

Trying to modulate between delusional hope and irrational fear? We’re Stargazing After Dark, and that's pretty much all we do. It's in our contract, or something.

Want to share some pregame good vibes? Sound off at Defending Big D. We read all your comments, and we even bring them up in future casts.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Let's get together more often. Thanks.

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In this episode of Stargazing, Wes and Mark had plenty of dark thoughts about the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. But, as usual, they also found a couple of reasons to believe this game was an outlier. In the middle, they discussed getting the top line unstuck, the need for Esa Lindell to start providing offense again, and why Jake Oettinger had to take the walk of shame to make a point to the guys in front of him.

Two periods of bad podcasting and one period of damage control? We’re Stargazing After Dark, and sometimes we're a little too hard on ourselves. (We're Stars fans. It comes with the territory.)

Want to vent about whatever that was on Saturday night? Let us know at Defending Big D. We’ll bring it up in the next cast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Help us help you get through this. Thanks.

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In the latest episode of Stargazing, Wes and Mark got together After Dark to pore over the Stars' first road victory of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. And they found plenty to discuss — including the signs that point toward Miro Heiskanen's return, the real threat of Gabriel Landeskog, and what might happen now that the Avs are the ones who have to play from behind.

You can't control Silly Putty by squeezing it, so don't try it with the Dallas Stars, either. We're Stargazing After Dark, and we think about this sort of thing for a living. (Or at least for the lulz.)

What's on your mind? Let us know at Defending Big D. We’ll bring it up in the next cast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. You’re why we do this.

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Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman have gone over the data from the Stars' 4-3 win on Monday, and they're happy to remind you that they put Colin Blackwell out into the world. They also took a look at how the system is working, and they huffed just a little hopium concerning the fact that Miro Heiskanen is finally traveling with the team again.

Just want to see some high-end guys having high-end games? Welcome to Stargazing After Dark. We love you.

Have something else you want to talk about? Let us know at Defending Big D. We’ll almost certainly bring it up in the next cast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. You're the best.

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Wes and Mark took a few hours to process the good and the bad in the Victory Green Gang's 5-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche. What they found was some surprisingly good news about structure and puck luck, and one or two shrieking warning sirens (fourth line, looking at you.)

It’s time for Stargazing After Dark. Please do not bring your "Esa Lindell and Cody Ceci are a shutdown pair" statements here.

Need to vent? Let us know at Defending Big D. We'll almost certainly bring it up in the next cast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. You are our champions. Thanks.

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To survey the first-round ice, Stargazing welcomed back longtime Colorado Avalanche writer Evan Liu, now of Hockey Mountain High. He sat down with Wes and Mark to talk about forward depth, netminder performance, the playoffs return of Tyler Seguin and Gabriel Landeskog, and why whatever happens...won't be a surprise.

So who you got? Let’s talk about it. It’s Stargazing time!

What’s on your mind? Share it at Defending Big D. (We’re there for you. Really!) And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Thank you kindly.

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What does it mean for the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs? Wes and Mark needed backup for this one, so they invited DBD alumnus Robert Tiffin – who's now kind of everywhere, thanks to D Magazine and his own Stars Thoughts Substack. And they talk about everything — from odd-yet-effective set plays to messy zone exits to how much it may (or may not) help when the Stars' injured stars are back from injuries.

Now that they're in the playoffs, maybe they just want to stay healthy and blow everything up in the first round. We're Stargazing, and we think about this stuff all. the. time. And we're only half-joking when we say that this episode is presented by StarsThoughts.com.

What's your biggest worry about the state of the Stars? Tell us about it at Defending Big D. We may bring up your points in the next podcast.

And please leave us a like, review or share wherever you listen, because we’re just about everywhere you are. Thanks!

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But we are Stars fans, which means we can't have nice things. So we're left to wonder if a Stanley Cup competitor's path through the Victory Green Gang will simply involve beating up on our favorite high-skill players until there aren't any left.

In this edition of Stargazing, Wes and Mark consider what the Stars' roster depth will mean for this year's postseason run. How important may it be that the front office hasn't overreacted to the team's perceived weaknesses? How long can their PDO bender last? And what will it mean for their chances if they can't slam the door more consistently on their opponents?

Think, for a moment, about the secret genius of pairing Lian Bichsel with Matt Dumba. We certainly have. This is Stargazing, brought to you by BetOnline.

What would this season have looked like without Jake Oettinger and Casey DeSmith? Tell us about it at Defending Big D. We may bring up your points in the next podcast.

And please leave us a like, review or share wherever you listen, because we're just about everywhere. Thanks!

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The Stars in Dallas benefit greatly when the Stars in Cedar Park succeed. So to take the measure of the T-Stars' prospects, Mark once again calls on the expertise of Stephen Meserve — creator of the must-read Texas Stars source 100 Degree Hockey and co-author of We Win Here: The Definitive Essays You Need About The Texas Stars.

In this episode, they address some hot topics:

• • how the Stars are working around their lack of draft capital,

• • why the organization remains a destination of choice for prospects and pros alike,

• • what needs to happen in the goalie pipeline,

• • what the future may hold for captain Curtis McKenzie,

• • the guys who might be playing on an NHL team next year, even if that team is not the Dallas Stars,

• • and so much more.

Does everything come down to left-handed D and right-handed D? Stargazing wonders, too. And it’s presented to you by BetOnline, because The Game Starts Here.

What happens if the T-Stars and the D-Stars are both deep in the playoffs at the same time? Let’s talk about it at Defending Big D. Your input always fuels our future casts. (And we'll mention you by name. Just saying.)

One more thing: Please don’t forget to give us a like, review, or share wherever you listen. Thanks!

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How does this team look for a deep playoffs run, especially if Tyler Seguin returns in his early-season form? Is it ridiculous to put so much faith in this lineup so early? Can the defense measure up? And what does Rantanen's presence mean for the Stars going forward – their power play, their postseason resilience, their...whatever you've got?

History shows that we need all hands on deck for this kind of thing, so once again Wes and Mark have called in reinforcements. DBD's own Brad McDonnell – a former DFW-area sports reporter turned digital marketing expert – makes his Stargazing debut to talk about the Stars' latest rise. It's a fun ride, so listen someplace where you won't feel self-conscious about clapping along.

So...does the Victory Green Gang once again have a Top 3 top line in the NHL? Our listeners have questions. Stargazing has answers. And it's all brought to you by BetOnline, because The Game Starts Here for real.

Do you expect ’99 Stars-level offense from the roster of weapons Jim Nill has assembled? ...Are you willing to bet Jason Robertson's Brett Hull Invisibility Shield on it? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D. Your input always fuels our future casts. (And we have been known to mention players by name. Just saying.)

Hey, while you're there, don’t forget to give us a like, review, or share where you listen. Thanks for your support.

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It's a lot to take in, so Wes and Mark called in backup. Our own Tyler Mair joined them to discuss what the deal means for the team, the salary cap, the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs, and much, much more. (And they even worked in the Wyatt Johnston extension. Nice.)

Is this what "all in" looks like? We're thinking mmmmmmmaybe? This is Stargazing, and we're brought to you by BetOnline.

And don’t forget to give us a like, review, or share wherever you listen. Thanks for tuning in.

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What impact can the right forward have? Can even the most dynamic forward compensate for not having another difference-making defender? At what point, if any, does a successful GM compromise his long-term vision for a player who can alter the course of a seven-game series?

You know Wes and Mark – they still haven't found a subject they can't hot-take on. They fire up the bakery early and often in this episode. And as we look down the ever-shorter road to the trade deadline, the questions on their minds are going to be on yours as well.

Does anyone really care who finishes first in the Central Division? Asking for a friend. At Stargazing. We're brought to you by BetOnline, so don't forget it.

What's on your mind? Tell us about it at Defending Big D. We’ll probably use that discussion in a future cast. (No, really!)

And don't forget to give us a like, review, or share wherever you listen. Thanks for your support.

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Which means it's a great time for Wes and Mark to start rolling sports takes. In this episode, they discuss the resurgence of Jason Robertson, the frustrations of Logan Stankoven and Mavrik Bourque, and what it means to have Lian Bichsel carrying the entire defense for the Texas Stars rather than playing on the third pair in Dallas.

Heads up: Matt Dumba gets his flowers in this one. That should be all the reason you need to go Stargazing with us. The whole thing is brought to you by BetOnline.

Any predictions for the trip East? Tell us about it at Defending Big D. We’ll probably bring it up in a future cast. (No, really!)

And hey, let us know you’re listening in the form of a like, review or share. Thanks for listening!

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Wes and Mark make the case that we're not seeing anything we didn't expect from a team on a learning curve – which also happens to be a team with three rookies playing as starters. The Hot-Takery Bakery is wide open, so spend a bit of your pregame time with them, won't you?

Chaos is just a doorway to opportunity. Or something. Let's think on it over a little Stargazing. It’s brought to you by BetOnline.

What's your biggest worry about the Stars' stat sheet so far? Tell us about at Defending Big D. We’ll probably bring it up in a future cast. (No, really!)

One more thing: Please let us know you're listening in the form of a like, review or share. Our New Year's resolution is to appreciate you even more. Thanks for listening!

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Few have forgotten that the deal that brought the Stars Joe Nieuwendyk also cost them Jarome Iginla. And fewer would take that trade back – even knowing the face-of-the-franchise, first-ballot Hall of Famer Iggy would become – considering what it ultimately brought.

With all this being true, and assuming the Stars are one player away from taking it all again in 2025...what would Stars fans consider a fair trade for the piece they're missing?

Wes and Mark decided to address the fannish conversations about this issue, and the scenario they relate is not the one you want to hear. Reality is what it is – but there's always the possibility you can substitute a different one. And they discuss that, too.

Magic is fun when you know the secret. Join us for a little Stargazing. It's brought to you by BetOnline.

And if you don't like talking hockey, but like talking business...tell us about it at Defending Big D. We’ll discuss your ideas in a future cast. (No, really!)

One more thing: Please leave us a tip in the form of a like, review or share. It'll be our favorite holiday gift ever. Thanks for listening!

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Wes and Mark are on the case, but then again, they're always on the case. In this episode, they discuss:

• • the Tyler Seguin injury,

• • the quiet advent of Oskar Bäck,

• • the meat and potatoes of the Miro Heiskanen-Matt Dumba pair,

• • the historical impact of letting Alex Goligoski walk,

• • Jim Nill, and what becomes a legend most,

• • and so very much more.

All this, plus Mark's latest Dallas Stars trivia question, can be yours! Just hit that play button. This is Stargazing – brought to you by BetOnline.

What can the Stars do with Seggy's LTIR cap space? Tell us at Defending Big D. We’ll talk about your ideas in a future cast. (No, really!)

And please don't forget to leave a tip in the form of a like, review or share. Thanks for listening!

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In case you've just met Mark Zimmerman, he can talk about the Texas Stars all day – but it's more fun to listen when he can bounce off someone who has as much passion for Cedar Park hockey as he does. For that, he's joined by Stephen Meserve, founder of the seminal T-Stars news site 100 Degree Hockey and co-author of We Win Here: The Definitive Essays You Need About The Texas Stars.

In this episode, they discuss the players to watch, the state of the feeder leagues, and the organizational depth the Dallas Stars organization has been working to build. They also measure the Texas Stars as a Calder Cup playoffs team, and how that will help the big team in Big D during a deep Stanley Cup run.

Been wondering if FloHockey TV is worth getting? We discuss that, too. This is Stargazing – brought to you by BetOnline.

What do you want to know about the Stars organization? Tell us in the comments. We'll use them in a future cast. (No, really!)

By the way, here's a link about that "ECHL Unfiltered" series on the Idaho Steelheads. And a trailer, while you're here.

One more thing: Please give us a rate, review or share wherever you listen. We love you all.

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As the only podcast that didn't get invited to Finland last week, Stargazing has been stewing in its long-distance thoughts about that. Wes and Mark have questions:

• • How reliant can the Stars afford to be on the Tyler Seguin-Matt Duchene line?

• • While we're on the subject, is Tyler Seguin a wizard?

• • Should we be worried that there are NHL netminders who have more goals than Miro Heiskanen does this season?

• • What will it take to get Jason Robertson going at full speed?

• • What's holding the rest of the roster back?

• • And so many, many more.

Will the Stars find another gear before the end of the year? Discuss it with us. We’re Stargazing, and we’re brought to you by BetOnline.

What do you want to see as the quarterpole approaches? Tell us at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’re still there, but only for you. Don’t leave us hanging.)

And please give us a rate, review or share wherever you listen. We love you all, always.

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As we wait with bated breath for the NHL Global Series, Wes and Mark took a close look at how the Stars started the season – and whether their hot start is sustainable. In this episode, they discuss:

• • how luck has factored into the Stars' power-play resurgence,

• • the one positional lack that hampers the first unit,

• • what stickwork will do for Mavrik Bourque's ability to stick his landing in the NHL,

• • the right way to think about Oskar Bäck's skill set,

• • why the fourth line has become a difference-maker,

• • the issue with the faceoff percentage, and why time may be the only thing to fix it,

• • how the Central Division is putting the #MurderDeathKill back into the all-important competition for playoff spaces,

• • and so very much more.

Will the Dallas Stars and the Florida Panthers bring the Thunderdome to Tampere? Get your Auntie Entity GIFs ready, just in case. We’re Stargazing, and we're brought to you by BetOnline.

What’s your take on the Stars' season so far? Tell us at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’re only there for you. Don’t leave us hanging.)

And please give us a rate, review or share wherever you listen. It'll be the best Halloween treat ever. We love you all.

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We do have rules, sort of. We'll never include injuries to specific players in our contemplation of worst-case scenarios. But that just leaves sleep-disturbers like these at the top of the menu:

• • What happens if the entire defense rides on the ability of the right side to overachieve?

• • How do the Stars deal if it takes weeks – or months – to put together a top line that works?

• • Who's left in Cedar Park if they still can't find their scoring mojo?

• • What if Jake Oettinger has another uneven season and Casey DeSmith can't pick up the slack?

• • What if they struggle with finding a team identity, either as an offensive threat or a defensive stalwart?

• • And so very much more.

What worries you more, the penalty kill or the power play? You've all been dreading it. We're just talking about it. We're Stargazing. And you can thank BetOnline for making that possible.

What’s your biggest irrational fear for the season to come? Tell us at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’re only there for you. Don’t leave us hanging.)

And please don't forget to give us a rate, review or share. It's hockey season! Live a little.

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It's a great environment for Stargazing's annual Brightside Cast, and Wes and Mark are definitely feeling it this year. In this edition, they talk about:

• • the Stars' preseason style and what it means for when the games start counting,

• • the offensive weapons at Pete DeBoer's disposal,

• • the improvement in goaltending depth,

• • the prospect of having three solid left-right pairs on the blueline,

• • oh yeah, Victory+, too!

• • and so very much more.

When you're penciling in Tyler Seguin as your third-line center, you mmmmight have a surfeit of talent. We're Stargazing, and we might just turn you into Mr. Brightside, too. Thank BetOnline for making that possible.

What's your most optimistic prediction for the season to come? Tell us in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’re only there for you. Don’t leave us hanging.)

And don’t hesitate to give us a rate, review and share. We love you all.

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Wes and Mark are firing up the Victory+ and getting ready to watch some hockey. And on the eve of the Stars' preseason opener, they have so, so, so much to share with you. In this episode, they discuss:

• • how the new contracts for Thomas Harley and Esa Lindell stack up,

• • where all the blueliners will slot in now that a Miro Heiskanen-Matt Dumba pair appears to be a thing,

• • whether it's still just fine if Lian Bichsel begins the season in Cedar Park,

• • how Pete DeBoer's line blender can extract some lemonade from Jason Robertson's preseason unavailability,

• • what it means when the Stars' offensive corps is largely settled but its deployment is in new and wide-open territory,

• • who's the best candidate to become the 13th forward,

• • and ever so much more.

Do you have a man crush on Jim Nill? It's OK to talk about it. We're Stargazing, and for us, it comes up a lot. (A lot.) And our friends at BetOnline still sponsor us. It's kind of beautiful.

How many minutes did it take for either of our hosts to drop an "I like where we're at"? Tell us in the comments, or DM us with your weird questions @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’re only there for you. Don’t leave us hanging.)

And while you're here: Please don't hesitate to give us a rate, review and share. We love you all.

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Wes and Mark check the milestones up ahead and point out the landmarks you don't want to miss:

• • the Traverse City NHL Prospect Tournament

• • training camp, and the stories waiting to happen,

• • the preseason schedule, and what to watch for,

• • and so much more.

How many days until Victory+ TV? Here at Stargazing, we're counting it down. And you can, too, thanks to our friends at BetOnline.

What are you most looking forward to this month? Let’s discuss it in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’re only there for you. Don’t leave us hanging.)

And because these two always call it – always – here's a look at the Stars' 2024 Traverse City lineup, posted literally minutes before we sent out this episode. (Thanks, I think.)

Last thing: Please do us the favor of a rate, review and share. Let’s get ready for Stars!

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Derek Neumeier, assistant director of scouting with McKeen's Hockey and longtime Friend of DBD, is back on the mic with Wes and Mark. With th 2024 NHL Draft over and training camp still on the horizon, they devoted an entire episode to Nothing But Prospects. Here's the kind of thing you'll hear:

• • which Stars prospects are the most fun to watch,

• • where Mavrik Bourque and Logan Stankoven will start their seasons,

• • how many Stars fans might be lining up for Lian Bichsel sweaters in the near future,

• • why that extra year with the Texas Stars may have been exactly what Thomas Harley needed,

• • and much, much more.

Is Logan Stankoven still a prospect? Or not? Stargazing asks the important questions, even when nobody knows the answers. And now you can, too, thanks to our friends at BetOnline.

Do you like where we're at, development-wise? Let's discuss it in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’re only there for you. Don't leave us hanging.)

If you can't get enough content on the Stars' goaltending pipeline, don't forget to pick up Taylor Baird's latest article on NHL.com.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Let’s keep the Stars in summer.

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NHL.com contributor and DBD editor-in-chief Taylor Baird joined Wes and Mark on the first day of silly season to sort through the Stars action. On this week's episode of Stargazing, we present a wide-ranging conversation that included topics like these:

• why a Chris Tanev deal didn't (and couldn't) happen

<li>what Dallas can do with three right-handed D-men,</li>

<li>how the Matt Duchene deal fits into the plan,</li>

<li>what to make of the Casey DeSmith signing,</li>

<li>and ever so much more.</li>

If you're fretting over fourth-line deployments, you actually may be doing pretty well. Let's go Stargazing. See if you agree. It's brought to you by our buddies at BetOnline.

For future reference, is winning the division an amateur move? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We're there for you.)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Let's keep the Stars in summer.

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In our final 2024 episode of Stargazing After Dark, Wes and Mark discuss the issues that may be keeping you awake at night, too. Such as:

• • how to get Miro Heiskanen on his strong side, once and for all,

• • why not playing games you don't have to play is a pretty good way to play fewer games,

• • whether it's better to have superstars or super depth,

• • and many, many more.

We're Stargazing, and we're assuming Chris Tanev is getting a new Victory Green contract sometime in the next several weeks. Please, help us speak this into existence. We'll bring it to you with some help from our buddies at BetOnline.

What else do you hope the Stars will do during the offseason? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We only stay there for you.)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. It makes us so sadly happy. Really it does.

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Wes and Mark are back from their long Memorial Day weekend, and they're here to catch you up on the Death Star vs. The Superstars: surviving the first period, responding to chaos, and never, ever starting to panic.

What do Jason Robertson and Jason Voorhees have in common? Think about it. We have. It's Stargazing time! And, as always, it’s brought to you by our buddies at BetOnline.

Now that we're near the halfway point, how are your predictions holding up? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. (We’ll check in, but only for you. Don’t blow it.)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. It makes us so sadly happy. Really it does.

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And now that the Stars have gone through last year's Stanley Cup champions and their most lethal sibling in the #MurderDeathKill Division, they begin a battle for the West against the Edmonton Oilers. And if you're a Stars fan, you know that history even if you weren't around for it.

For a preview worthy of this event, we invited Patrick Phillips, better known on YouTube as The Oilers Fanatic. He sat down with Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman to share memories of series past and to talk about what makes the present so unpredictable. They also got to the usual stuff, like McDavid & Draisaitl Vs. The World, the Jake Oettinger supremacy, how defense has shaped both squads, and how each of our favorite teams will win and lose.

What was your first experience of being devastated by sports? Let’s talk about it. We're Stargazing in the morning! And, as always, it’s brought to you by our buddies at BetOnline.

Will this Stars-Oilers series live up to the hype? Share your thoughts at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the Default Font From The ’90s app. (We’ll check in, but only for you. Don't blow it.)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. That high will last us all weekend. Thanks in advance.

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In this episode, Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman discuss how Chris Tanev countered Nathan MacKinnon, the art of overtime playoffs line-blending, the importance of the team game to the Stars' strategy, and what may be their biggest concern going forward. Plus there's so much more – including a look at what might have happened in a Dallas-Vancouver series that's been, ahhhh, overtaken by events.

The Stars aren't facing the Minotaur. They are the Minotaur. Let's discuss it...while we're Stargazing After Dark. It’s brought to you by BetOnline.

What are you looking for in the Stars' next series? Let’s talk about it at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app.

And hey, throw us a rate, review or share. We can prove it will bring good luck. Maybe. Someday. Not now, of course.

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Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman actually sat down to talk about it. In this edition, they go in-depth into what the Stars are doing right, the likelihood that the Avalanche will figure them out, the possible impact of injuries, and how the Victory Green Gang can definitively make the story their own.

If you've been keeping up with these guys, you may have noticed that their predictions tend to come true. Listen to Stargazing After Dark...and learn the future! It's all part of the service we provide...thanks to BetOnline.

Will the Stars close the deal tonight? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D – or DM us your questions and concerns @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app.

And hey, throw us a rate, review or share and keep those prognostications coming. It won't work unless you do it!

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It's OK, Stars fans, you still have time to panic. But Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman took a long look at a game the Avs were supposed to win, on paper...and they liked what they saw. No, really. In this edition, they look at how the Victory Green Gang righted the ship at home and took away the game Colorado wanted to play in their own barn. And, as always, they have ideas about how to make it continue, because something something Big Hockey Brains.

You already know a big Nate MacKinnon game is coming. The question is, how do you prepare for it? We have answers...because we're Stargazing After Dark. And now you can, too, thanks to BetOnline.

What's surprised you most about this series so far? For better or otherwise? Tell us about at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. Casters are waiting for your call. (Heed the suggestive saxophone riff. Listen to it.)

And please throw us a rate, review or share if you're so inclined. It truly, truly makes our day. Thanks in advance.

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Settle down – this isn't a doomcast. But Wes and Mark do have some thoughts about line matchups, the important role of chaos, and whether the Stars should try to make the Avs' top line play every third shift and clean up on all the others.

Maybe it's time for Mason Marchment to come back. It's definitely time for Stargazing After Dark. And it’s brought to you by BetOnline.

What has you most hyped about Round 2 – for better or otherwise? Let’s talk about it at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. Casters are waiting for your call. (We even have a suggestive saxophone riff, so you know we mean it.)

And if you throw us a rate, review or share, we'll clap like Nugget the Circus Seal. Thanks in advance.

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This time, we welcomed Evan Liu of our 4Fans sister site Puck Yeti. He sat down with Wes and Mark for the usual roundtable about roster strengths and weaknesses, the pros and cons of a seven-game series versus a week of rest, and how each of our favorite teams will win, and lose.

So who you got? Let’s talk about it. It’s Stargazing time – and it's brought to you by our buddies at BetOnline.

What's on your mind concerning the Stanley Cup Playoffs so far? Share it in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the Default Font From The ’90s app. (We’re there for you. Really!)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We thank you kindly.

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Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman are Stars fans, so they're always looking over their shoulders. But even they see the green shoots here. In this cast, they discuss:

• • the new team the Stars are becoming before our eyes,

• • Wyatt Johnston as a period-full-stop member of Dallas' core,

• • the one (1) time plus-minus is actually a useful stat,

• • and whether Logan Stankoven is about 40 NHL games away from scoring every time he gets the puck on his stick.

When was the last time you heard that Jason Robertson is playoff-soft? We can't remember, either. Join us for Stargazing...After Dark. It's brought to you by BetOnline.

What's on your mind, Stars-wise? Let’s talk about at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. Casters are waiting for your call.

And please throw us a rate, review or share. It's actually pretty sad how much we live for it.

(By the way, we do experience the occasional time-shifting anomaly. Let it be known that we recorded before this news broke. Listen to Stargazing, learn the future!)

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In this episode, DBD's cast-masters bring the discussion on everything that matters – including Jake Oettinger's return to the best version of himself, the forward lines that just keep coming, the momentum that runs shift to shift but not game to game, and Craig Smith as secret sauce.

What is this series doing in Round 1? It's a mystery. And this is Stargazing – brought to you by BetOnline.

Does Logan Stankoven need to stop deferring? Let's talk about it at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. We’re here for you.

And let us know if you're stuck in traffic on the way to Game 5! It may be a good time to rate, review and share. (Not if you're driving, though. That would be wrong.)

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But what will they need to quiet the house in Vegas again? Well, for starters, Wes and Mark would like a sixth defenseman who can get more than eight minutes a game. But they have a wish list, and they'll gladly share it with you – at the low, low price of about 36 minutes of your time.

You can't sacrifice Round 1 while you're planning for Round 2. Play the game in front of you. Let's go Stargazing – brought to you, as always, by BetOnline.

Who will you look to for a big game tonight? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the short app. We’re there.

And hey, let us know if you actually use this as pregame listening! Also, your rate, review and/or share helps keep us alive. (No pressure.)

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But the Victory Green Gang still needs to find a way to bring its best against a team that has committed to doing what it does best. Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman puzzle out what that might mean – whether taking more high-danger shots or reshuffling the forward lines.

As a matter of fact, we did record this in the wash room during our lunch break. That's our story. And this...is Stargazing.

Who's due to break through? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on that one app that used to be the other app. We're here for you.

And please, if you're inclined, honor our stupid commitment to this bit with a rate, review or share. Let's get through this together.

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...Well, let's not go that far. Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman have had a few hours to assimilate everything, and they have thoughts. And takes. Takes, especially – on everything from officiating to special teams and from board battles to point shots (or lack thereof).

Does Jake Oettinger need to do a miracle, or just the expected? It's time for Stargazing After Dark, and it's brought to you by BetOnline.

Need to vent? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on that one app that used to be the other app. Impress your friends and get a shout in our next cast!

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. You make us feel brand-new.

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For this assignment, Stargazing wanted to go straight to the source – so we sought out 4Fans' resident opposition expert. Tom Urtz Jr. is having a busy postseason, as both interim site manager of Knights On Ice and deputy managing editor of the New York Rangers site Blueshirt Banter. He sat down with Wes and Mark to talk rosters, storylines, and possible surprises for the first round.

So who you got? Let's talk about it. It's Stargazing time!

What are your hopes and fears for the first round? Share them in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the Default Font From The ’90s app. (We’re still there, but only for you.)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Hey, it's the playoffs. And we love you all more than ever.

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Wes and Mark sat down on Eclipse Day 2024 to bask in the totality of the past week, good and bad. And as always, they have plenty to say about our Stars and what they have revealed to us. In this episode:

• How are the Stars preparing for the playoffs?

<li>What can we say about Mavrik Bourque's debut?</li>

<li>How will Pete DeBoer handle load management for Tyler Seguin?</li>

<li>What happens when Daddy and Hak come back?</li>

<li>And ever so much more.</li>

So is it better to take on the Vegas Golden Knights earlier or later in the Stanley Cup playoffs? You know you've asked yourself the same question. Let's go Stargazing...for answers!

We all have postseason thoughts. Share yours in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the Default Font From The ’90s app. (We’re still there! Well, for you we will be.)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We love you all, and we’ll love you even better during the playoffs.

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That leaves a select few, including Wes and Mark, to find the discussion points in this particularly well-balanced version of the Victory Green Gang. And this week, they get a timely assist from Taylor Baird, NHL.com contributor and our own longtime editor-in-chief. In this episode:

• a big win in British Columbia – and a taste of the Stanley Cup fight on the horizon,
• the return of Playoffs Jake Oettinger,
• the long tail of the Bennaissance,
• and so very much more.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We love you all, and we’ll love you even better during the playoffs.

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Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman are back from spring break, and they have plenty to discuss, mainly about the Stars' state of readiness for the fight ahead. What's going right? Where are the exploitable weaknesses? And how did GM Jim Nill do in preparing his squad for this moment?

And finally, what's the secret sauce in the Seguin-Duchene-Marchment line, and why does it go away when any one of them does? We just might have figured it out. Don't tell us you don't want to know. Join us for some Stargazing.

What do you want to see as the Stars take on one more West Coast swing? Tell us at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on that one app that used to be the other app. (Sure we're still there!)

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We love you all, and we'll love you even better during the playoffs.

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Oh, mercy. Wes and Mark have watched all of it, and they have...thoughts. And a few scorching-hot takes. Join us for a little Stargazing as they discuss the games just played, the schedule ahead, the incoming Logan Stankoven supremacy, and so very much more.

Want to get in your final stretch-run predictions while they haven't been overtaken by events? Tell us here – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on that one app that used to be the other app. Trust us, we've thought up worse.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. You keep us alive.

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Wes and Mark took a look at a long, long road week and found a few spots that the line blender might solve – and a few that the NHL trade deadline might help. Join us for a little pre-game Stargazing, won't you?

Which forward lines would you like to roll? Tell us at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the birdy app.

And don’t forget to rate, review and share. Thanks for the support.

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The NHL trade deadline is days away, and clearly, this is the point at which you need more players on the ice. So Wes and Mark took their own advice and called D Magazine contributor and Friend o' DBD Robert Tiffin, whose latest piece for StrongSide is the jumping-off point for their musings. In this episode:

• • Do the Stars have to trade their future to close their Cup window?

• • Is there any real downside to trading a first-round pick?

• • Is Chris Tanev or Noah Hanifin really the answer?

• • And which will kill the team first: cap or term?

Hey, every time the Stars have gotten Jamie Oleksiak back, he's been a better player. We're just saying. And that's why we're Stargazing.

Who's on your wish list for the Stars' next big swing? Tell us at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the birdy app.

And don’t forget to rate, review and share. Thanks for the support.

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Well, as it turns out, Wes and Mark have plenty to say. And in this episode of Stargazing, they cut loose on questions like this:

• • Has Jim Nill underserved one of his own golden rules? And what will it do to the Stars' Stanley Cup hopes?

• • When does Wyatt Johnston graduate from "good prospect" to "good NHL player"?

• • Is Playoffs Jake Oettinger back in action?

• • What can the Stars do – really do – if one of their defenders gets taken out by injury? For any length of time?

• • What's the underreported cap issue that could shape the roster well into next season?

• • And much, much more.

Who's your dark-horse candidate for the Dallas Stars Hall of Fame? Let's talk about all of them at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the birdy app.

And don't forget to rate, review and share. We love you best.

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That's one reason why Wes and Tyler settled in to talk about how it started, how it's going, and what to expect. Can the Victory Green Gang gain momentum, or will they settle for holding serve? We'll talk about this, and so much more.

Can we podcast any more this week? (Well, technically, probably not, because it's already Saturday.) Tell us where to get off at Defending Big D, or contact us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the birdy app.

And do the Stars fan in your life a favor – share this podcast with them. Give us a rate or review while you're at it. Your love keeps us going.

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It's a lot to take in, especially for a team that started the season with a bang but has started the new year on the struggle bus. It's time to catch up – so Mark sat down with Stephen Meserve, the mind behind 100 Degree Hockey and one half of the writing team behind the definitive Texas Stars history-in-essays, We Win Here. In this edition, they talked about:

• • how injuries have affected the roster,

• • how players and staff have tried to adjust,

• • the surprises (and no-surprises) among the team's hottest prospects,

• • what some standout players need to do to make it to the next level,

• • and much, much more.

Ever wondered why the back half of the Texas Stars season is always so loaded? Find out here...on Stargazing. (And while you're at it, follow Stephen and 100 Degree Hockey on the birdy app for the latest on the T-Stars.)

Let's think about the future. Talk to us about your favorite up-and-comers at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts on the birdy app.

And share the love by sharing this episode. Give us a rate or review, too. Of all our favorite listeners, you’re our most favorite-est.

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Wes and Mark decided to do some cookin'...and now they're ready to talk recipes. Stargazing is back with a vengeance, and in this episode, we discuss:

• • Jake Oettinger, All-Star, and whether he's set to play like one,

• • how to make sure Miro Heiskanen is ready to be a tank in the playoffs

• • the defensive developments that could decide the Stars' postseason fate,

• • the Logan Stankoven / Mavrik Bourque conundrum that hangs over everything,

• • what to do at the trade deadline,

• • the lazy takes, and the crazy takes,

• • and so much more.

Is there really nothing left to talk about until March? And how are we going to pad out this little puppet show until then? Let us know at Defending Big D – or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. (Hey, it's February in Dallas. You're gonna want to warm up over these hot takes later.)

And share the love by sharing this episode. Give us a rate or review, too. Of all our favorite listeners, you're our most favorite-est.

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Wes and Mark are ready to start 2024 with a bang, so they're unloading some of their best analysis and barely-digestible hot takes in this week's Stargazing. In this edition, they discuss:

• • when Scott Wedgewood, Starting Goaltender, reaches the moment of unsustainability,

• • why the Stars should play three forwards in overtime,

• • why the Stars should practice with three forwards in overtime first,

• • the real cost of Miro Heiskanen's absence, however short it may be,

• • what the last rollercoaster week can tell us about the team and its roster,

• • and much, much more.

Roope Hintz may be the Stars' best player, but is Jake Oettinger their most better? Let Wes and Mark explain this, then let us know what you think at Defending Big D. Or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Hot takes for cold weather!

And show your friends you love them by sharing this episode around. Give us a rate or review, too. It's the preferred New Year's resolution.

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Wes and Mark feel like celebrating, but they always have an eye out for anything that could spoil the party. In this episode, they discuss:

• • what these Stars are capable of,

• • the perils of relying on "clutch" to carry the day,

• • things to watch for this weekend,

• • New Year's resolutions for our favorite GM,

• • and much, much more.

How much can a team can get done in 13 seconds? We're liable to find out. Welcome to Stargazing!

What’s your Stars-related resolution for 2024? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We need more hot takes to get us through a cold January.

And show your friends you love them, man – share this episode around. Give us a rate or review, if the holiday mood hits you. See you next year!

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Kidding, sort of – but Wes and Mark always have an eye on where the puck will be next, and they've already moved on to the next worry. In this episode, they discuss:

• • the netminding situation, and why Jim Nill should leave it alone,

• • the defense, and why Nill should leave that alone, too,

• • Logan Stankoven and Mavrik Bourque, and why they probably need to be left alone,

• • a radical plan for Radek Faksa,

• • and much, much more.

What's your least popular Stars-related opinion? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We love you and your hot takes.

And please, show your friends you care by sharing this episode. Give us a rate or review while you’re at it. Scamper ’round the aluminum pole with us!

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Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman got together this morning to talk about everything from the state of the Central Division to the fun going on out West, and from the not-so-fun stats dogging Jake Oettinger to a possible plan for the NHL trade deadline. Now you can enjoy their conversation while you're pregaming tonight's bout with the Ottawa Senators.

This is Stargazing, and yes, we love you that much.

What do you want to see more of from this year’s Stars? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We read all your comments, and we’ll even name-check you in a future cast, if your hot takes are spicy enough.

And don’t forget to share with your friends. Give us a rate or review while you’re at it. It's the holiday thing to do.

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Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman sat down to talk about the current state of play, and we have a hunch you'll want to listen. And in case you want to play along with our TV On The Radio segment, you can watch, too.

Mark chose a clip in which Jani Hakanpää picked a bad time to make a routine stick adjustment. And Wes selected the moment in which we see Mason Marchment go from zero to hero within the same questionable display.

What do you want to see more of from this year's Stars? Let us know here, or DM us  @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We read all your comments, and we'll even name-check you in a future cast, if your hot takes are spicy enough.

And in the holiday spirit, don't forget to share with your friends. Give us a rate or review while you're at it. We're Stargazing, and we love you.

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What are you thinking these days? Let us know here – or DM us  @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Get a mention in the next cast! It’s fun.

And please, tell your friends about us. Give us a rate or review wherever you listen, too. We're still Stargazing, and you're still awesome.

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Our MP3 heroes met up before a game in Vancouver that could be the scoring bonanza of the season to date. Get their all their hot takes, considered observations, and game-time predictions before the 9 PM start! (Or after. Timeshifting is cool, too.)

And just to show how committed to the bit we are, there are three TV On The Radio clips to nerd out over this time around – all from the Stars' seat-of-the-pants victory over the Calgary Flames. Wes singles out Jamie Benn's defensive chops here.

And here are Mark's picks – first, extra footage on the Captain's coverage, and then another highlighting the decision-making of Ryan Suter and Jani Hakanpää.

What else do you wanna know? Let us know at Defending Big D – or DM us on Txxitter @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Get a mention in the next cast! It's fun.

And please, tell your friends about us. Give us a rate or review wherever you listen, too. We are Stargazing, and you are awesome.

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No reporter knows the Cedar Park system better than 100 Degree Hockey founder Stephen Meserve. And in this sit-down with Mark, he once again shares his expertise with Stargazing. In this episode, learn more about:

• • the peaks and valleys of a rookie's journey through his first season,

• • what Lian Bichsel has learned about North American ice (and rules),

• • whether Logan Stankoven or Mavrik Bourque is poised to grab the first forward call-up,

• • how veterans factor into the team's plans for its prospects,

• • the Stars' investments in net,

• • Neil Graham's future with the organization,

• • and what the Idaho Steelheads are doing that makes "getting sent down" to the ECHL a bonus rather than a demotion.

Heads up: Stephen has written a feature for TheAHL.com that you won't want to miss. Follow him on the former bird app to make sure you're among the first to see it.

Who's the prospect you can't wait to see in Dallas? Let us know at Defending Big D – or DM us on Txxitter @HitZIceSTAT or @KETibbetts. We'll probably mention you in the next cast, but we probably have to hear from you first. (No pressure.)

And don't forget to tell your friends about us. Give us a rate or review wherever you listen, too. This is Stargazing, and you are awesome.

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You might like to think that the guys who gleefully post a regular Doomcast would be ready to pounce. But Wes and Mark have taken a much more measured approach – and we think you will, too, after you listen. In this edition of Stargazing:

• • What's really the problem with the power play?

• • How close is Nils Lundkvist to becoming a top-four defender?

• • Has Dallas found...wait for it!...a fourth line that can also score?

• • Why must you be this tall to play on a line with Evgenii Dadonov?

• • And what we will do with TV On The Radio this week?

This week's highlight videos are brought to you by Matt Duchene – and by a regular DBD'er, who provided the feedback that prompted these choices. Schluck, please claim your gift basket!

Here is Mark's pick – the Mason Marchment goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

And Wes brings in another big-brain play from the same game.

You know the pass is coming. You just have to know what to do with it. Here at Stargazing, that's what we're all about. Join us, won't you?

What do you love (or hate) to see from these Stars? Let’s discuss it at Defending Big D – or DM us on the forever bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Real listeners get shoutouts – why not you?

And we love it when you tell your friends about us, and also when you give us a rate or review wherever you listen. This is Stargazing, and you are awesome.

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Wes and Mark hear your cries, and that's only one reason why they're introducing a new gimmick feature for our humble puckcast. In this edition of Stargazing, you'll hear each of them choose a play from a recent game that tells them everything they need to know about the current state of the Stars (unless it doesn't). Then they'll talk about why – and at no additional cost to you, the listener.

Mark provides a handy YouTube link for his choice – a Ty Dellandrea play during the shootout loss to the Vegas Golden Knights. And here's Wes' key moment – that first goal the Stars gave up to the Anaheim Ducks.

Would you rather chase your fears or air your hopes? Let's discuss it at Defending Big D – or DM us on the ’90s-era default font app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. If your take is spicy enough, we might just quote you in a future episode.

And please don’t forget to share. Tell your friends about us, and give us a rate or review wherever you listen. We love you!

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For this edition of Stargazing, D Magazine's David Castillo – who's also a longtime DBD contributor – sat down with Wes Lawrence to take the fear out of #fancystats. In this episode, they discuss:

• how stats like Corsi and Wins Above Replacement affect a team's makeup,

<li>what coaches may see in that player you hate (or love),</li>

<li>why analysis and intuition can, and should, work hand in hand,</li>

<li>and what's on the horizon for the quant crowd.</li>

Ready to revisit the Honka Wars? Oh yes...we went there. Leave your thoughts here, or DM us on the ’90s-era default font app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Let's talk about it!

And please don't forget to share. Tell your friends about us, and give us a rate or review wherever you listen. We appreciate it more than we can say.

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Here at Stargazing, we believe in embracing the fear as a way to reduce its demonic power over us. That’s why Wes and Mark spent last night rummaging through the hurt locker for the second half of our season preview. (Also because they think it's fun. Go figure.) In this episode:

• why the defense really is the tire fire you think it is,

<li>how the regression monster can still destroy your hopes if (when?) it catches the forward corps,</li>

<li>what happens if Jake Oettinger can't get enough rest during the back half,</li>

<li>the front-office decisions that could come back to bite the Stars' postseason hopes,</li>

<li>and why the Texas Stars can't bail out the big squad if shifts get real.</li>

We’re not saying doom is the answer, but it usually asks the best questions. That's a fact...and this is Stargazing.

What are your biggest Big D worries? Speak them out loud at Defending Big D, or DM us on that other tire fire @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We'd love to bring them up in a future podcast.

And never forget: Sharing is caring! Please tell your friends about us. Rate or review while you’re at it. We love you all differently, but we love you all as much. Thanks.

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That's why Wes and Mark sat down late last week for their annual Mssrs. Brightside buddy act. And they found a lot to be positive about. In this episode, they discuss:

• • the reasons why the defense may be better than you think it is,

• • the new (and continuing) power of the forward corps,

• • the case for worrying much less about whether Jake Oettinger is getting enough time off in net,

• • and why a deep Stanley Cup run is the floor for ’24.

We're not saying someone is coming home with postseason hardware, but Miro Heiskanen...the floor is yours. This is Stargazing.

Who’s the ray of sunshine in your Stars firmament? Post your thoughts at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Let’s talk about it in the next podcast.

Sharing is caring! Please tell your friends about us. Rate or review while you’re at it. We love you all

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Wes and Mark are trying to find that balance between unreasonable optimism and ice-cold reality. You decide if it's working. In this episode:

• How does Lian Bichsel look on North American ice?

<li>Will Oskar Bäck's possible injury hold the squad back for the rest of the tournament?</li>

<li>What can Antonio Stranges learn from Logan Stankoven?</li>

<li>Is Rémi Poirier becoming the French buccaneer the Stars need?</li>

<li>Who else should you be watching?</li>

<li>And what are the emerging storylines for training camp?</li>

There's a reason why you cannot make Wyatt Johnston go away. Let's talk about it...in Stargazing.

Who's featuring in your future headlines? Post your thoughts at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Let's talk about it in the next podcast.

And don’t forget that sharing is caring. Tell all your friends about us. Rate or review while you’re at it. We appreciate it more than we can say.

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Never fear – Wes Lawrence and Tyler Mair have devoted an entire podcast to these burning questions. In this episode:

• what to expect from the Traverse City Prospect Tournament,
• storylines to follow during Cedar Park training camp,
• players to watch in the preseason,
• and why all these games that don't matter actually do matter.

What would you do for a party at Joe Pavelski's house? Post your thoughts here, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We’ll name-check you in the next podcast.

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With that in mind, Wes and Mark are wasting no time in testing out their takes for the coming Dallas Stars season. In this episode:

• Is this the deepest Stars squad in recent memory?
• How are player roles evolving under Pete DeBoer’s coaching regime?
• What can the team do now that they have more than one-and-a-half offensive lines?
• Has Mason Marchment become the Ryan Suter of Adam Burishes – or can he bounce back to his original Stars form?
• Speaking of Suter, can DeBoer set him up to be as effective as he can be?
• How concerned should we still be about the defense as a whole?
• And what about the team’s cap flexibility, or lack thereof?

It’s time to plan around hockey again. It’s time…for a new episode of Stargazing. Brought to you by our good friends at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

What are you looking forward to this month? DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We'll name-check you in the next podcast. That high could last for days!

And please tell your friends about us with a rate, review, or share. Enjoy.

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Wes and Mark certainly thought so, and now they want to talk about why. In this edition:

• Why did GM Jim focus on the forward corps?
• What will have to happen if the Stars still want another top-four blueliner?
• How can Nils Lundqvist still have an impact?
• Where do the Stars’ best prospects fit into Nill’s three-dimensional chess game?
• What will Dallas do about its cap situation?
• And how will Pete DeBoer deploy the retooled roster?

We don’t know the question…but is the answer Matt Duchene? Let’s talk about it…in the new episode of Stargazing. Brought to you by our good friends at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

Is hundred-degree heat actually the best time for hockey? Objectively? Post your thoughts at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app (or whatever ’90s system-default font that is) @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We'll mention you by name in the next podcast, and that high will last you for the rest of the week. We practically guarantee it.

And please tell your friends about us with a rate, review, or share. Enjoy.

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Friend of DBD Derek Neumeier, assistant director of scouting with McKeen's Hockey, sat down with Taylor Baird and Mark Zimmerman to discuss the Stars' 2023 NHL Draft and how it builds on previous years. In this episode:

• each 2023 draft pick, profiled,
• notes from the Stars' most recent Prospect Development Camp,
• what scouts are saying,
• how the Stars stack up against their competition,
• and much, much more.

Does Rich Peverley get all the credit he deserves? The answer is no, and our team can tell you why...in this edition of Stargazing. Brought to you by our good friends at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

What do you want to know about the Stars' prospects? Post your questions in the comments at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We'll name-check you in the next podcast.

And please tell your friends about us with a rate, review, or share. We love all of you differently, but every one of you just as much. Enjoy.

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Tyler Mair, who's been assessing individual performances in his DBD Player Grades series, joined Mark Zimmerman to examine the Stars' present (and future?) roster. In this episode:

• How will the team bolster the forward corps?
• What are the most pressing issues regarding the defense?
• And can you really ever have enough goaltending?

Let's think big. Let's go Stargazing. Brought to you by our good friends at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

What are your biggest question about the offseason? Post them at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We'll name-check you in the next podcast.

And you can never go wrong with a rate, review or share. Tell your friends about the Stars love, and it'll come back to you. Probably. Maybe.

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Wes and Mark took a moment to disassemble the Voltron of disaster that culminated in Tuesday night's breakdown, and what the Victory Green Gang must to do to avoid a gentleman's sweep as the series returns to Las Vegas. In this episode:

• why the Stars have caught more pipes than nets against the Golden Knights,
• why we need to talk about Jake Oettinger,
• why Jamie Benn's shocking lapse in judgment may have felt inevitable,
• the importance of trust, or the lack of it,
• the reappearance of Regular-Season Robo, and the prospect of Dallas' best scorer beginning to score in bunches again,
• what this postseason will mean for Roope Hintz, no matter the final result,
• the long, long odds against a meaningful comeback,
• and the signs of hope – however small – that we might at least get a Game 6.

It's time to ask yourself what you believe. It's time...for Stargazing. Brought to you by our good friends at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

How does all this make you feel? Tell us about it at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We may talk about it in the next podcast.

Spread the Stars love around – rate, review and share. We appreciate it more than we can say.

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Wes and Mark have been thinking about this matchup for a long time. A long time. In this edition, they talk about:

• what stood out in the Stars' seven-game series with the Seattle Kraken,
• why this series marks a return to "normal" hockey,
• what Esa Lindell does exceptionally well,
• why the Stars succeed, or fail, in individual games,
• which groups are crushing it, and which are Kryptonite,
• how the whole team can help out Jake Oettinger,
• why even a struggling Jason Robertson is better than you think,
• and what may be the one way Vegas can control the series.

It's on, as they say, like Donkey Kong. We're Stargazing, and we approve this message. Brought to you by our good friends at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

What does your NHL GM bingo card look like? Tell us about it at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We may talk about it in the next podcast.

And don't forget to spread the Stars love around – rate, review and share.

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Taylor Baird joined MC Wes Lawrence to go over the Stars' scenarios, and they had a lot to discuss in a short 30 minutes. In this episode:

• the case for a Victory Green victory,
• the factors that could swing the game,
• who needs to step up,
• the case for shortening the bench,
• what the Stars must do to put the Kraken on the back foot (tentacle, whatever),
• and what may happen if they don't.

It's time to get real. It's time...for Stargazing. Brought to you by the good folks at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

Any Stanley Cup playoffs questions keeping you up at night, not that there's anything wrong with that? Tell us about them at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We read them all, and we may even talk about them in the next podcast, so you got that going for you.

And don't forget to spread the Stars love around – rate, review and share.

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Wes, Mark and Tyler got together to give it a think-out-loud, and we turned it into a whole podcast. In this episode:

• why the Stars' top line has been the dog that didn't bark,
• what to make of Jake Oettinger's Round 2 stats,
• the horrible truth (?) about Miro Heiskanen,
• what to look for if the Stars have really turned a corner,
• and what may be the biggest danger facing the Victory Green Gang for the rest of the series.

We don't know the question, but the answer is "Give Thomas Harley more ice time." Meanwhile, it's time for Stargazing! Brought to you by the good folks at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

Have a Round 2 question? Tell us about a Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We'll name-check you in the next podcast.

And don't forget what needy creatures we are – rate, review and share. Thanks!

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DBD's fearless leader, Taylor Baird, joins Wes and Mark for a long look at the series so far, just in time for your pre-Game 3 listening. In this episode:

• the impact of Joe Pavelski,
• the importance of knowing when to react and when to let it ride,
• which lines are working (and which players they're not working for),
• what Dallas might do to switch up the defense,
• how Jason Robertson can get his groove on,
• and the eternal danger of Jake Oettinger.

Who do you think is the Stars player most likely to make another team miserable during a seven-game series? Share your thoughts...with Stargazing. It's brought to you by the good folks at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

What's Kraken? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We're collecting your thoughts, because we love you. (Not like we're stalkers, or anything.)

And don't forget that rating, reviewing and sharing is a great way to share the love around. Thanks in advance.

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Wes, Mark and Tyler took a deep look into the team's performance and found plenty to talk about. In this episode:

• how the Victory Green Gang fashioned the Round 1 victory over the Minnesota Wild,
• the individual performances that stood out during the series,
• what they need to do to prevail now that the fans have the fight they wanted with the Seattle Kraken,
• and who needs to deliver if the Stars want another Western Conference Final in their future.

All this, plus a quick listen to the thunder in the East...it's time for Stargazing. Brought to you by the good folks at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

Have a Round 2 question? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We'll name-check you in the next podcast.

Rating, reviewing and sharing is a great way to spread the Stars love. Thanks!

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Regular Stargazing co-host Mark Zimmerman invited back 100 Degree Hockey's Stephen Meserve for a long talk about the Texas Stars' postseason, which officially begins on Friday, April 28 in Rockford. In this edition, learn all about:

• which players to watch at every position,
• how the team has prepared for the playoffs,
• a closer look at potential opponents,
• who's most likely to get the call-up if the Dallas Stars make a deep Stanley Cup run,
• the many ways in which leadership has shaped this year's squad,
• and why their special teams could make the difference in a long climb to the Calder Cup Finals.

All this, plus a look inside We Win Here, Stephen's new book with Sean Shapiro...what more could you want? Let's go Stargazing – in Cedar Park. Brought to you by the good folks at the Green Team, Greening Law, P.C.

Just because this is an AHL episode doesn't mean you can't share your Round 1 questions at Defending Big D. Or you can always contact us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Let us know what you want to talk about!

And please don't forget to rate, review and share. We love you.

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Wes Lawrence and Taylor Baird bring back Stargazing Nights with a review of the first four games, as well as a look ahead at the battles to come. It's probably going to be a long week – and trust us, you need their wisdom.

It's the Stanley Cup playoffs. Everybody is 100% healthy. No further questions. So join us for a little Stargazing after dark. Brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

Share your biggest Round 1 questions in the comments – or flip us a bird @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You'll probably get name-checked the next podcast, and we guarantee it'll make your week.

And please don't forget to rate, review and share. We love you in advance.

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Wes Lawrence, co-host of Defending Big D's own Stargazing Puckcast, joined fellow commentators from six of our sibling sites to chew the fat and spit hot fire:

• Stanley Cup Of Chowder, for all things Boston Bruins,
• Anaheim Calling, a favorite pond for Ducks fans,
• Jewels From The Crown, serving the Los Angeles Kings,
• The Cannon, sounding off for the Columbus Blue Jackets,
• Davy Jones' Locker Room, where Seattle Kraken fans lurk,
• and Lighthouse Hockey, a beacon for the New York Islanders.

This expert panel went series by series in anticipation of the playoffs action. Here's what they talked about:

• Can anyone stop the Bruins?
• How much Martin Jones does anyone really need?
• Does Connor McDavid stay in God Mode?
• Can the Colorado Avalanche get healthy?
• How do the Stars deal with actual expectations?
• And much, much more.

Buckle up, it's going to be a heckuva ride! (Notice: Not responsible for accidents, nausea, coma, death, or any other physical or psychological injuries.) And, as always, our end is brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

You must have so many questions about Round 1. Share them at Defending Big D, or flip us a bird @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You'll get name-checked in the next podcast, and your pals will be jealous.

And this time, we invite you to visit the sites of our friends and rivals, as linked above. Many of them are as new and improved as this one, and they'll appreciate the clicks for sure. Thanks. Love you.

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You may ask yourself...how did they get here? Wes and Mark took a good look at the Stars' current situation, and dare we say they like where we're at? In this episode:

• Does it really matter who Dallas plays in the first round – and why not?
• How did Mason Marchment look in his first game back from injury?
• How many matchup problems did his return create for the Stars' playoffs opponents?
• Why will it probably be at least one more season before Miro Heiskanen starts getting the leaguewide recognition he deserves?
• On that tip, what will it take for Jason Robertson to get a little sugar?
• And is Jim Nill the real source of the secret sauce?

We don't know the question, but the answer is "Naught-inger." This is Stargazing, and for once, we can't wait for Monday. Brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

What are your questions as we await Round 1? Share them at Defending Big D – or you can always flip us a bird @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Do it! You could get name-checked the next podcast.

And please do us the favor of a rate, review or share. We love you in advance.

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So what's left on the regular-season wish list? Wes, Mark, and Taylor 2.0 got together, and they came up with some questions worthy of Stargazing over. In this episode:

• What should we look for as the Stars seek to finish strong?
• Where do Miro Heiskanen's and Thomas Harley's skill sets match up, and what could that mean for the Dallas defense?
• Are veteran mistakes better than rookie mistakes simply because you know what they are and when they'll show up, night after night after night?
• And how closely should we watch if the team finally gets the Tyler Seguin-Max Domi-Mason Marchment band back together?

We don't know the question, but the answer might be "Scott Wedgewood." Find out why...on Stargazing. Brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

How do you think Jason Robertson will mojo himself into 50 regular-season goals? Let's discuss it at the all-new Defending Big D – or you can always flip us a bird @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. (You could be part of the next podcast. Not bad, right?)

And we're always grateful when you rate, review and share. Even more so now, because it helps us get the word out about DBD's spanking-new site. Tell your friends!

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And while it's technically possible for the Victory Green Gang to fall out of the Stanley Cup playoffs, it's probably time to start scouting Western Conference matchups. Wes and Mark are, as always, up to the challenge. In this episode, they discuss: 

• why every first-round opponent will be challenging,
• why some will be more challenging than others (file under: just about any Central Division team),
• why the Stars should try to make a statement with every remaining regular-season game,
• and why the persistent specter of getting goalie'd fades during a playoffs series.

Is it true that if you say "Murder Death Kill Division" three times, Gabriel Landeskog will get a hat trick against you? Share your suspicions...with Stargazing. It’s brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

Who's your dream first-round opponent? Tell us about it at Defending Big D, or send us a bird @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And we hate it when you rate, review or share. Seriously. Don't do it.

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Have you had enough of ESPN yet? Tell us about it at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And we always, always appreciate a rate, review or share, because our listeners are the best listeners in the world.

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Are you ready to embrace the Daddy Era? Talk to us about it at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share, wherever you listen. Thanks!

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What’s your stupid problem? Leave it at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Thanks for listening.

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• the skills they need,
• the specter of the salary cap,
• the ghost of the Stars’ puck control,
• the Chaos Line, and how to fix it,
• the save percentage in overtime,
• and whether the TDL is overblown.

Ready for a trip to the dark side? Welcome to Stargazing. Brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

Comments? Questions? Leave them at Defending Big D, or DM us on Birdy Song @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be featured in our next episode.

And we love it when you rate, review and share. Please remember to give us a nod wherever you social.

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Want to get your question or comment into our final 2023 @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Because who doesn’t love a DBD shout?

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We’re all family here, so it’s the law, or something.

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We’ve all seen this team have these problems before, so Wes and Mark catalogued a few of the things they hope to see more (and less) of in the coming weeks. In this episode:

• Is this a slump, or is this just...hockey?
• Should the Stars try to shut down 3-on-3 overtime so they can win in the shootout?
• Or is the answer to sucking less in OT simply to finish the job in regulation more often?
• And is any change at all too much for a team whose system is, by and large, working?

How much do you fix with patience, and how much do you fix with change? Let’s talk about all of this, and more...in Stargazing. It’s brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

Want to talk about the 2023 NHL trade deadline? Leave a question or comment at Defending Big D, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be featured in our next episode.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We love it. Really we do.

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Wes and Mark would love to get in line for their postseason tickets right now, but they’re Stars fans, and Stars fans are conditioned to brace for the collapse. What has the team done, and what should it do, to shore up its weaknesses and prepare for the playoffs? In this edition, they discuss:

• the long, wild ride that has been Jamie Benn’s career to date,
• the value and volatility of Good Denis Gurianov,
• which Texas Star should get the next big opportunity,
• at least one way the team can do better in overtime,
• how to grow a third line,
• those Patrick Kane rumors,
• Thomas Harley, yet again,
• Radek Faksa, Goal Scorer,
• and where to get one of those Otter plushies.

All this, plus a John Klingberg cameo you won’t expect...that’s it. That’s Stargazing. And it’s brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

Comments? Questions? Leave them in the comments, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be featured in our next episode.

And please don’t forget to rate, review or share. Preferably all three. It keeps us going.

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100 Degree Hockey founder (and AHL color commentator) Stephen Meserve joins Mark for a spring update on how the Stars have aligned to give us world peace – or at least the prospect of three deep playoffs runs. In this edition, we explore:

• the role that roster depth has played in the season so far,
• the pros and cons of a stable lineup,
• the players earning T-Stars head coach Neil Graham’s trust,
• the hottest prospects to watch,
• who’s challenging for organizational supremacy,
• and who looks to have figured out how to make the big jump to Big D.

What kind of organization has to healthy-scratch Mavrik Bourque? This question and more like them are waiting for you in this special edition of Stargazing. Plus, you can find out what Stephen has in common with Jerad Rosburg, and who doesn’t want to know that? Brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

Which prospects are you watching? Let us know in the comments, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be featured in our next episode.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. We live for it. (Pretty pathetic, we know.)

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Taylor joins Wes and Mark for a wide-ranging discussion of the baggage the Victory Green Gang is carrying into the 2023 All-Star Weekend. In this episode, these burning questions:

• Will the Stars ever win in 3-on-3 overtime again?
• Should they even bother when there’s no 3x3 OT in the (*ahem*) Stanley Cup playoffs?
• Is Mason Marchment in a lull, or just finding his way via the Joe Pavelski path?
• Why does Pete DeBoer hate the plus-minus stat, and why do you hate it, too?
• Where can they find some secondary and tertiary scoring, and will they have to pay for it?
• What are the upsides (and downsides) of having every team in the Stars organization leading their respective divisions right now?
• And what are the actual chances that Jim Nill is in on the Bo Horvat derby?

The world is just full of niche problems that may not be worth the time to solve. Bring them to Stargazing. We’ll at least try to talk them to death. Brought to you by our sponsor, Greening Law, P.C.

How would you make the All-Star Game more watchable? Let us know at DBD, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be featured in our next episode.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. It really does make our day.

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Got a question, observation, or complaint? Post them in the comments, or DM us on the bird app @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could get a shout-out in our next episode.

And we always appreciate it when you rate, review or share our stuff. Thanks in advance.

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But here at Stargazing, there’s no problem so big or small that it can’t be discussed to death. So this week, Wes and Mark take the pulse of the currently Hintz-less Stars and look for signs of trouble. In this episode:

• No, really, how much are they missing Roope Hintz right now?
• Is this what it looks like when they revert to being a two-line team – and is giving Wyatt Johnston a line of his own really the answer?
• Have the Stars given up on being a threat and are now working on just rolling three decent scoring lines?
• Is the real issue not in trying to fix the fourth line, but in trying to create the third?
• Or have deficiencies on defense become the issue in and of themselves?
• Will Thomas Harley’s time come ’round at last, finally?
• And is the entire house of cards built upon Jake Oettinger being Best Jake Oettinger for as many games as it takes?

On top of all this, we have an exciting announcement about our new sponsor: Welcome to the podcast, Greening Law, P.C.!

We’re not sure what the question is, but the answer is “ice time.” This is Stargazing, and that’s our conclusion. (And where else can you hear someone use the word “jeremiad” in a sentence?)

Give us your best words in the comments, or @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. We read them all, and sometimes we put them in the run of show. (We’ll even give you a shout-out. Tell your friends.)

Chaos may be impossible to control, but it’s entirely up to you whether you rate, review or share us. So that’s why we’re asking politely.

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The question now is how long it can (or will need to) last. Wes and Mark took a look at the California blitz that began on New Year’s Eve, and here’s what they brought for this week’s podcast:

• How did the Victory Green Gang lose to the Anaheim Ducks?
• No, really, it wasn’t all John Gibson’s Veteran Moves™ (although it might as well have been)?
• Should we expect more from Joel Kiviranta at this point?
• Can we expect more if Fredrik Olofsson gets a good look on the second line?
• What could a conditioning stint in Cedar Park do for Denis Gurianov?
• What about that new Joe Pavelski contract?
• Who has to step up on the defense?
• And what does the team still have to do to access Super Saiyan mode?

Everybody looks good with Miro Heiskanen. It is known. This is Stargazing.

Want to go over 9,000 this year? Start by sharing your questions at Defending Big D or in our DMs @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. Be part of the next podcast!

And make it a New Year’s resolution to rate, review and share our little sound files. We appreciate it more than we can say.

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And if you’ve already subscribed, please don’t forget to rate, review and share. You’re some of our favorite auld acquaintances.

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Wes and Mark survey the season so far, and they have lots of presents (with just a few lumps of coal) for the Dallas Stars organization. In this edition:

• Which parts of Pete DeBoer’s system have become gifts that keep on giving?
• Which parts have left us with an unfulfilled wish list?
• Which players have been the best gifters in Cedar Park and Boise, as the Texas Stars and Idaho Steelheads spread the excellence around?
• And what would you like to find under your Stars holiday tree?

Never rip a team down to the studs when you can just draft a bunch of ’em. We’re Stargazing, and we call this our slogan. (Well, our second slogan, after “We’ll fix it in post.”)

What do you want this year? Let us know at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And our favorite holiday gifts are rates, reviews and shares. Just putting that out there.

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You don’t want to let beef simmer. Throw us your questions at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And yes, Mark is getting a wired mic for Christmas. We guarantee it.

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Sharing is caring – but rates and reviews are pretty sweet as well. We’d be honored if you give us any of those. (Or all of them. We’ll take all of them, too.)

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Wes, Mark and Juraj got together the morning of the Anaheim Ducks game to talk about what the Stars have, and what they’re wishing for. In this edition:

• Are we on full-time Jason Robertson Hart Trophy watch? Should we be?
• How does the Stars’ cap-hit layer cake stack up with the Roope Hintz extension?
• Can a handful of sub-optimal contracts still spoil the taste?
• Or will it be offset if the reinvigoration of a few key players keeps paying dividends?
• What about the holes that still remain in the defense?
• Is there really any downside to the team being so healthy, for the most part?
• How do the Stars’ salary issues track with general league trends?
• And what of Joe Pavelski?

All this, plus an Anton Khudobin update, are in this week’s Stargazing. Gather around the Yule log with us.

Let’s talk Stars hockey. Leave us a note in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And all we want for Christmas is a rate, review or share. (Well, that and a wired mic for Mark.) Put us on your Secret Santa list, won’t you?

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The Victory Green Gang leads the Central Division (still, at this posting) in points, and it also leads the league in shooting percentage. But there’s a lot going on under the hood right now – and as always, Wes and Mark want to pop the latch and take a look. In this edition:

• Why are the Stars outperforming the statistical models?
• Is it a PDO fluke, and we should be on full-time regression watch?
• Or is this proof that the new system is working?
• Is having one or two lines that can just win a game for you the model?
• Aren’t Tyler Seguin, Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson merely doing what they do?
• And seriously, what does Joe Pavelski ever do that isn’t something he does every game, all the time, as a perfect expression of everything he stands for?

All this, plus the most likely and unlikely regression candidates – welcome to Stargazing, where we will never, repeat never, spoil the World Cup results for you.

We’re thankful for you. All of you. Talk to us at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And we’re especially thankful for your rates, reviews and shares. Your support matters to us, at Thanksgiving and every day.

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And please do us the honor of a rate, review, or share. All three, even. It means the world and the stars.

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Wes and Mark have been thinking about it for a while. They recorded this podcast literal moments before the Stars-Coyotes game began, and they’re absolutely willing to take credit for Denis Gurianov getting his mojo back. (They’re also willing to publicly ask David Castillo to do their analytics work for them.) In this episode:

• Tyler Seguin’s big return to form,
• the ongoing dominance of the Pavelski & Sons line,
• Jamie Benn’s mentorship of Ty Dellandrea, and why it should make every Dallas fan smile (and every opponent shudder in fear),
• the arsenal of new playing tools Pete DeBoer has brought to bear,
• the new-look defense,
• and the countermeasure-proof miracle machine that is Miro Heiskanen.

If you can’t get off the schneid with a butt goal, the next best thing is to break your duck by way of a kick assist. This is Stargazing’s story, and we’re sticking to it.

Got questions? Sound off at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. It’s the feedback we live for.

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Hockey insider Sean Shapiro joins Taylor and Mark to discuss the Stars’ business, on and off the ice. In this episode, they kick around:

• where the Stars will get their revenue in the future,
• why Ty Dellandrea is the Stars story that should get more attention,
• why Joel Hanley may have the safest berth of any Stars player,
• how Thomas Harley can make his case in Dallas,
• whether Matej Blumel can play his way onto the big team,
• and why sports betting is coming to Texas, whether anyone likes it or not.

Hate those digital ads? At least they’re distracting you from the ones on the uniforms. Welcome to Stargazing.

Got questions? Sound off at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share wherever you listen. It really does keep us going.

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It’s nice to see, but can they keep doing it? Can they do it again after an inevitable fallow period during a long season? And does it mean Pete DeBoer’s new system is working? Are the Stars...good?

Mark and Taylor teamed up just before the overtime loss in Toronto to check the vibes. In this edition, they examine:

• how the forward corps is responding to their expanding freedom,
• Miro Heiskanen and the new look of the blueline,
• whether Jake Oettinger is meeting his hype,
• the looming consequences of being a little too free with penalty minutes,
• the prospect of finally merging a high-octane offense with responsible defense,
• and whether Stars hockey is actually fun again.

Got questions about the team’s opening shots? Sound off at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share wherever you listen. It really does keep us going.

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Stephen Meserve, head honcho of 100 Degree Hockey and a leading light in Texas Stars analysis, joins Mark and Taylor to examine the current lineup and the coming season. And it’s just in time for the season opener! In this episode:

• Can the T-Stars strike the right balance of young talent and veteran leadership?
• How will the successful offensive system from last spring work over a full season?
• How stacked are the squads when a forward like Jordan Kawaguchi is going to the Idaho Steelheads?
• Which players could surprise us, for better or otherwise?
• And how will Thomas Harley deal with starting another season in the A?

Don’t sleep on Neil Graham, is what we’re saying. That’s one reason why we call it Stargazing.

Never an overdose of Stars prospects? Sound off in the comments about who you’re watching, and DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts if you have questions. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share wherever you listen. We appreciate it more than words can say, although we have plenty of words, if you want them.

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And please don’t forget to rate, review and share wherever you listen. We appreciate it more than words can say, although we have plenty of words, if you want them.

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Wes, Mark, and Juraj stayed up late just to talk about the underrated, the injury-prone, and the over-under on the opening-night squad. In this episode:

• When will Jason Robertson be back, realistically?
• What will the Stars do in the meantime?
• What will change with Ty Dellandrea’s injury?
• Where will Thomas Harley start the season?
• How will the junior-league playoffs experience of Wyatt Johnston, Logan Stankoven and Mavrik Bourque figure into their chances?
• What about goalie depth? (No, really. We’re back to goalie depth as a preseason puzzler.)
• Who are the Dallas roster’s dark horses?
• And how will the salary-cap situation affect (read: interfere with) these decisions?

Does scoring more goals solve everything? Here at Stargazing, we look forward to finding out. Join us, won’t you?

What are your biggest questions about the coming season? Let us know in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And we love it when you rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Mark Zimmerman and Derek Neumeier were there, and lucky for us, they’re ready to share. They’ve examined the sure things, the sleepers, and the dark horses, and they talk about what they saw in this episode:

• What did we learn about the Stars’ depth from the Traverse City tournament?
• How did Neil Graham’s strategy take advantage of it?
• Who has the right skills to flourish under Pete DeBoer’s prospective system?
• Was the Nils Lundkvist trade a steal, or a felony?
• How will it affect the team’s structure over the next few years?
• Who’s realistically competing for a roster spot during this training camp?
• Who will grab a spot on the Texas Stars?
• Are waiver exemptions going to make most of these decisions for the front office?
• And which solid prospects could end up eating nachos, even in Cedar Park?

Will we finally see Ty Dellandrea get a full season in the NHL? Stargazing is willing to go there, and now you can go there with us. Stay tuned to learn more about Derek’s new job!

What are you most looking forward to as training camp commences? Let us know in the comments, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. There’s a very good chance you’ll be part of the next podcast.

And it helps everyone (well, us, mostly) when you rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Welcome to the Doomcast! Wes, Mark and Tyler leaned waaaay into the worst cases for our latest upload (with only one area ruled off-limits), and even reached as far as bankruptcy just to get the edgelord points. In this edition:

• What if the Stars can’t find a way to replace John Klingberg?
• What if Jake Oettinger stumbles out of the gate?
• Has Dallas’ old defense-from-defense system ruined the offense of its young stars?
• What if the hot prospects just aren’t as hot as we think they are?
• What will happen to The Turtle? Could a few key injuries force the Stars back into that shell?
• And what if Miro Heiskanen can’t play every single ding-dang position? (...Oh, wait.)

The way out is through. Stargazing can help.

Any questions left about the offseason? We can answer, even if we’re wrong. Leave your queries here, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And it helps everyone (well, us, mostly) when you rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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But this week, Wes, Mark and Tyler are focusing on happy thoughts and good things. Mostly. In this episode:

• On a scale of Shea Weber to Dustin Penner, how likely is it that the still-unsigned Jake Oettinger gets an offer sheet?
• On a scale of Andrei Vasilevskiy to Jordan Binnington, where does our potential cornerstone (and current adorable sea creature) really tip the scale?
• What would it take for the Stars to even contemplate allowing Jason Robertson to leave the fold?
• What would it take for Robertson to even consider signing an offer sheet?
• Does a team even exist who can offer it?
• To expand on that thought, has the NHL’s flat cap destroyed the offseason?
• And will schadenfreude help?

We wouldn’t be surprised if this continues all the way into training camp. Welcome to Stargazing.

You have questions. We have answers, sort of. Leave your queries at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And we love it when you rate, review and share, especially during the offseason. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Welcome to Stargazing, where the only offer-sheet discussion is the “don’t make me laugh” kind. In this edition, Wes and Mark kick around questions like these:

• What can we hope for from Colin Miller?
• What’s the next step for Miro Heiskanen?
• Will Thomas Harley get the shot at top-four action that was the putative reason the Stars drafted him in the first place?
• Can Esa Lindell rediscover his offensive game under new bench boss Pete DeBoer?
• What kind of gamble is the Mason Marchment signing?
• Will the entire league follow Tampa Bay into a stars-and-scrubs roster structure?
• And is there still a daring deal the Stars can strike to keep John Klingberg?

Somebody has to decide to make it happen, and Stargazing is on the case. Get your summer Stars fix here.

Send us your questions! No, really! Leave one at Defending Big D, or contact us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And we love it when you rate, review and share, especially during the offseason. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Mike Piellucci and David Castillo, who are helping D Magazine put down stakes as a Dallas sportswriting destination, joined Wes and Mark earlier this week. For well over an hour, they talked about writing to bring fans in without dumbing things down, and how some of those lessons can apply to the Stars as well. In this episode:

• How do you get casual fans excited about a sport as data-driven as hockey?
• What terrifies the Stars’ leadership group more than being terrible?
• How does their business plan hold up when they’re also competing not to be the “fourth team” in a sports-mad market?
• Why haven’t they made their most exciting players a bigger part of their product, both on the ice and off? (Because let’s face it, the Roope Hintz-Mike Modano comparisons practically make themselves.)
• What can the Toronto Maple Leafs teach us about what is and isn’t possible?
• What does the Tanking Era demonstrate about what the Stars are trying to do?
• And how did “consistently inconsistent” become this team’s brand from top to bottom?

All this, plus a long look at the new bench boss, are yours in this week’s Stargazing. (The salty language is a gift with purchase.)

It may be the offseason, but we still live for your comments and questions. Leave one at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And remember, please rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Derek Neumeier, head Western scout with FC Hockey and longtime Friend o’ DBD, joined Wes and Mark to talk about it. In this jam-packed episode:

• Wyatt Johnston’s incredible OHL season – and why he could earn an NHL roster spot out of training camp,
• Riley Tufte’s possible role on the roster,
• Ty Dellandrea’s progress and potential,
• Logan Stankoven, future fan favorite,
• Antonio Stranges, and what we can learn about prospect development by following him closely,
• Artem Grushnikov, and what makes him a modern-day shutdown defenseman,
• the incredible shrinking blueline prospect pool,
• the question marks about depth in goal,
• the impact of the flat cap on the future lineup,
• the Stars’ draft capital, and how they can use it,
• and how all of this affects the Texas Stars.

...What, with a Top Gun movie in theaters right now, you think we wouldn’t talk about a kid named Mavrik? But wait, there’s more – because this is Stargazing.

Send us all your comments and questions! Leave one at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please, please rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Can the Stars find a bench boss who can integrate their veteran talent with the emerging potential of a new, young core? Or will Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz suffer the same fate as prime Jamie Benn? Taylor and Mark discuss all this and more:

• What’s going on with the coaching hire?
• How much of that decision is up to Jim Nill?
• How much of what we’re hearing is probably being leaked by agents?
• Will the new guy fit with both the Stars’ existing roster and their hottest up-and-comers?
• Can they finally sync up with the future direction of the league while they’re at it?
• What will the new regime mean for how the Stars approach the 2022 NHL Draft?
• And how do they compete with all the other teams who are looking for fresh blood behind the bench?

All this, plus the best reason for Jason Robertson to sign a bridge deal this offseason, await you in Stargazing. Buckle up...the summer is about to get more exciting.

We love your comments and questions. All of them. Leave one at Defending Big D, or DM us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast!

And for the love of hockey, please rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Wes, Taylor and Mark read the litmus test of the Rick Bowness era, as well as the tea leaves for the next bench crew. In this episode:

• How surprised should we be?
• Where will the Stars look for the next sheriff in town?
• What are the odds that a European coach gets a shot at rebooting the Stars’ young roster?
• Or is an NHL long-timer like Barry Trotz a better choice for getting the veterans going?
• Will Texas Stars up-and-comer Neil Graham make the cut?
• And what will any new head coach have to do once they get here?

All this, plus the eternal debate over how the NHL develops new talent, are yours in the new Stargazing – where it’s always a good time to be a Stars fan.

Your comments and questions keep us alive. Leave one here or find us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And for the love of hockey, please rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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And please rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Wes, Taylor and Rob sat down to discuss what the Victory Green Gang has done right during the past two victories over the Calgary Flames. In this episode:

• Are the Stars actually, really built for the Stanley Cup playoffs?
• How have they managed to keep the Flames from converting their superior possession metrics into useful offense?
• When will Roope Hintz be able to buy a goal again?
• Is Jake Oettinger a Vezina-caliber netminder as well as an adorable sea creature?
• Is Calgary playing into Dallas’ hands if they try to get edgier and more physical?
• And will the series ultimately be decided not by depth scoring, but by the top line that gets going consistently?

Is it all depth scoring if nobody scores? Stargazing is asking the most important questions of our time. And then destroying them. With answers!

We love your comments and questions! Leave one at Defending Big D, or find us @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next playoffs podcast.

And, as always, please rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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And, as always, please rate, review and share. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

And please rate, review and share while you’re at it. Tell us why you listen wherever you subscribe.

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Wes and Mark contemplate whether our team will rise to the occasion or choke another postseason away during the next few days. In this episode:

• Does goal differential really matter? Or at least matter as much as we fans like to think?
• Can the Stars actually win against teams they should be able to beat?
• Will they have to deal with the Vegas Golden Knights the old-fashioned way on Tuesday?
• Is Jake Oettinger going through a phase, or should we be worried? And how much of that can be chalked up to the 200-hockey-men baggage attached to young netminders?
• Can the Avengers Line carry the Stars the rest of the way?
• Has the relentless reality of their bubble-team status left that as the only viable option?
• And what will happen if they do make the Stanley Cup playoffs?

Who’s your First Man in Nacho Land? Let’s talk about it. Welcome to Stargazing.

We love your comments and questions! No, really! Leave one at Defending Big D, or seek us out @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts. You could be part of the next podcast.

And please consider rating, reviewing and sharing. Tell us what you love, or hate, wherever you subscribe.

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Yes, we’re talking about the push for the playoffs, yet again. But this time, Robert Tiffin is back to join Wes Lawrence and Mark Zimmerman. If anyone can game this out, it’s them.

Please note that this cast was recorded before the NHL trade deadline. (And it’s KT’s fault that we haven’t posted it until now. It happens.) With that said...

• How much has the team missed Miro Heiskanen?
• Has the John Klingberg-Thomas Harley pairing almost, almost made up for it?
• Are Joel Kiviranta and Marian Studenic as good together as you think they are?
• What good will trade-deadline acquisitions be if the basic lineup doesn’t really change?
• And what would you give for a dominant win against a real contending team?

Are you creating enough chances? Think about it. This is Stargazing, the podcast that is not weird about Aleš Hemský, mostly.

Want to be part of the next podcast? Leave your comments and questions at Defending Big D – or drop us a DM @WesALawrence or @KETibbetts.

And please don’t forget to rate, review and share. Tell us how we’re doing wherever you subscribe.

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